2nd Day of Resplendent Earth, RY 768
Midday

During the journey to An-Teng, the season of Water has long since passed, warming up toward the season of Earth. By now, though, the Alliance has reached the last, long stretch of sea travel before their destination, so see very little of the season's gradual effect on land.

They do pleasantly notice that the weather is becoming more temperate. The rains when they come are rarely icy or heavy, and many crewmen are now donning lighter jackets for work on the main deck. What few storms they recently passed have been minor, tempered by the presence of Cinna (whose red hair serves as a talisman against storm mothers) and sheer good luck. The Alliance ships make good time across the waves with the aid of Jadira's sorcery, Hirdu's cord of winds, Marlena's natural swiftness and Akihiro's youthful eagerness, as the season most sacred to his kind reaches its peak.

When it comes time to rendezvous with the Hammerhead, the ships are about a week away from reaching the south mainland, where they will navigate the tropical waters of the Dragon Mouth Bay toward An-Teng. Kareth and Darel are asked to communicate coordinates through Wind-Carried Words, as the rendezvous is timed to take place on the ocean, rather than ashore.

The Spring Dryad, Black Marlena, Akihiro and Hirdu's Ambition simultaneously drop their respective spells, charms and other talismans for speed, and shorten the sails (should they have sails; Akihiro, as a living island, simply slows his swimming) until they reach a dead stop. The Hammerhead's arrival should be from the west, and the captains and officers of the Alliance are invited to cross over to the Dryad to meet Treon, Darel, and their new companion Hera together.

---

OOC: My bad, it's actually Earth that follows Water, not Wood as I had said in the previous thread. It's fixed now. :)

Also, the invitation to gather all together on the Dryad is just a suggestion, as it'd make it a lot easier than shouting across ship decks, but you could choose to stay on your ships if you want. So long as some of you are there to meet the Hammerhead folks, it's fine.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:02, Wed 28 Oct 2009.

Kareth strode across the deck towards Lasuri.  His time at and performing the physical labor of his crafting had left him slightly more sure of foot on deck.  His long, greasy black hair whipped in the breeze.  Normally, people would notice his black cloak behaving similarly but it seemed as though an object in one of the pockets weighed it down.  As he approached the captain, he unceremoniously reached into the cloak and pulled out a large, egg-shaped object.  "They should be here shortly," the engineer says, relaying the last message he had received from the hammer head.  "By the way, it's finished."  He hands the cache egg over to the captain.  No pomp or dramatic unveiling.  With that, the engineer walks over to the cabin and leans against it, waiting for the Treon, Darel, and the rest of the Hammerhead to board.

The first those present on the waiting ships see is the sail of the Hammerhead breaking the horizon, although soon the whole ship becomes visible.  She's closing on the fleet at a good clip.  The sails are not billowing in a manner appropriate for the prevailing wind, explaining the good time the ship had made coming down here--magic.

On board, Treon stands at the wheel.  "Well, will you look at that," he remarks as he takes in the full majesty of the Cobalt Alliance fleet.  "Have you ever seen anything like that?" he points to the Akihiro.

Soon though, the Hammerhead has dropped anchor too, with the rest of the fleet.  Boats are put into the water, and Treon, Darel, Hera, Aranita, the Libram and Tethia are brought over to the Dryad.

"Permission to come aboard, Captain," he shouted up.

May of the Jokun and Nymphs that made up the crew of Akihiro were on the surface of the Spirit-Ship, watching over the proceedings, the Jokun with almost ceremonial quiet intensity, while the Nymphs paid less apparently attention, many of them diving into the waves below, attending to Akihiro, or simply enjoying the waves, though a number of them simply sat down and watched, both the elementals capable of extreme patience.  Kiana, however, was not at her ship, but was instead aboard the Dryad.

The past few months had bee a time of great growth for the young Captain, and her time with Lasuri and Zeru had been very well spent.  Her grace in combat had increased almost exponentially, and her mannerisms had both softened and opened up a great deal.  Gone was the incredibly silent, shy girl, and in her place was a confident young woman, with a warm, if somewhat reserved, smile.  Her healthy black hair shined in the sun, and the recently repaired red dress fit her toned, and somewhat tanned young body almost uniformly.  Normally she would have been beset by at least five Jokun body guards, but Kiana had made it clear that she was perfectly safe aboard the Dryad, and though reluctant, they trusted their Captain.

So Kiana waited, having never met the crew of the Hammerhead (to her knowledge) and was certainly happy to correct the error.  They were simply another part of the Cobalt Alliance, and for that reason alone Kiana knew she would be meeting fast friends.

Zeru left the Marlena with promises to behave and to return shortly. He crossed over to the Dryad without pomp, without circumstance, just another man existing aboard a ship. Coral however would have none of that. She wanted attention, and so upon catching sight of Kiana, Coral made her move. Silently, gracefully the cat pawed at the bottom of the pocket of Zeru's coat. She undid the latch and fell quietly to the ground. Carefully maneuvering amongst the legs of the captains Coral finally found herself at Kiana's feet. "Mau!" Came the pitiable cry for attention. Everyone within earshot could understand this one, not only Zeru. It said. "I would like to be picked up and petted please"

Zeru of course followed the cat to the other captains. "Sorry about that, she can't help but ask to be petted."

Black Reed is the one to answer Treon when he points out Akihiro for the first time. "I've never seen, but I have heard of such beings before. The 'living islands' are native to the Wavecrest Isles, there are even some villages in the area that trained them to harry pirates from Coral." The dark-skinned ex-pirate may well be speaking out of experience, but he certainly doesn't confirm that out loud.

"Though the very fact the Alliance has one, tame and following along, is something that is definitely uncommon," Tethia adds, as the group leaving to board the Dryad parts from Reed and the rest of the crew. The three months hasn't changed her over much; she is as cool and indifferent as ever, at least on the outside. The pain of losing Kossuth would have faded some by then, but still she has spent more time alone than with anyone.

The other ex-pirates manning the Hammerhead are definitely different, though, if one knows to notice. It shows in their discipline and patience, the confidence and surety with which they follow Treon's commands. They are definitely more Treon's men, and the Alliance's, than they were when they were captured following their former captain's death at Lasuri's hands.

Aranita is surprised to be included along with the Terrestrials meeting on the Dryad, but is quietly thankful; Tethia is much too standoffish, and the Dryad looks like it has more women aboard. "How amazing... are these what sailing ships are like further east?" she asks of the artifact warship. The young woman from Nkiru remains close, but not too close, to Treon as the boat rows toward its destination, her face showing an intense curiosity for the vessels that make up the Alliance fleet.

Smiling towards the engineer, Lasuri actually bows, accepting the cache egg humbly and gratefully. "Mister Kareth, as always you've gone above and beyond expectations and the call of duty. Believe me, you've done a great service to this weary Captain... I was getting pretty tired to listen to the Chalice's incessant prattling. This should shut it up nicely. Do speak up when you spot an occasion for me to make it up to you, my friend." Lasuri salutes Kareth then, before returning his attention towards Treon and the crew of the Hammerhead, visibly happy to see them well - along with a few new faces, as well.

"Permission granted, Captain - you and yours are always more than welcome aboard." Turning towards the crew of the Dryad - who sadly look very much thinned out in numbers, as Treon and Darel would certainly notice - Lasuri lets out a shout to call them to attention. "We've got company, people - friends we havent't seen in a long time. Prepare the ship the receive them and help them hoist themselves on board immediately."

The crew busies itself with getting everyone on board, helping out the visitors from the Hammerhead to climb on the deck of the Alliance's flagship. Helping with the procedures, Lasuri smiles warmly at the sight of their allies, reaching a hand for Treon to shake.

"It's very nice to see you and yours back, Captain - and in one piece after having completed your objectives, no less. You've all been missed."

Kiana gave a big smile and, without a single mew more, was quick to scoop up the kitten and begin to lavish pets upon her, even going so far as to rub her cheek against the kitten's face.  Kiana just couldn't help herself, and the result was well too cute.

"That is quite alright Zeru, I think I enjoy petting her more than she enjoys the petting, to be honest."  Kiana said cheerfully.

Jadira is standing next to Lasuri, of course, wearing her dark green and red-embroidered coat unbuttoned, showing beneath a dark blue blouse laced up to the neck and her close-fitting oiled leather pants. Since she's been experimenting with alchemical dyes, she managed to extract some squid ink from the fishermens' catch that made a nice indigo color. A little lighter and she'd get the cobalt shade just right!

"Welcome back, Treon and Darel. It's been a long few months. We've sustained some losses since you've been away... ran afoul of the Lintha, and they're not the type to give up easily." Her expression looks briefly pained, and she rubs her temples, letting out a small sigh. Still, she truly is glad to see the other Alliance members return to the fold, especially after losing nearly half the Dryad's crew.

"It looks like you've picked up a few new people yourself," Jadira points out, and turns to the two women she doesn't recognize, Hera and Aranita. "Welcome to the Cobalt Alliance flagship, the Spring Dryad II. I'm the first mate, Jadira Thornbloom, and this of course is our Captain and leader, Lasuri Leomaris..."

She goes through introducing the others, should they not offer their own names, then chuckles at herself. "I sound like a tour guide. Seriously though, an ally of an ally is welcome to stand with us, as well."

Darel stepped lightly on the Dryad's deck, his shapeshifted neomah in tow. He seemed more... detached, airy and otherworldy than the last time he had been with the rest of the Cobalt Alliance. Probably a result of a greater connection with the element of Air.

He scanned the crew, noted the thinning of their ranks. He acknowledged Lasuri's welcome: "It is a pleasure to be on your ship again, Captain."

Nodding to Jadira, he spoke: "I am glad to see that you are unharmed. The Lintha are bitter enemies, and a plague for the West."

"Well, they're a sight, and that's for sure," he says, not wanting to pry into Black Reed's past over much.  The Alliance represented a new start, after all.  "I'm sure we'll find out her or his story when we meet with them."

"That's the Spring Dryad II, the flagship of the Alliance," he identifies her for Aranita.  "There arn't many ships like her in Creation, quite how they got her I'm not entirely sure," he grins.

"It's good to see you again too," he says in greeting to all.  "My sympathies for those who won't be sailing any more.  The Lintha are a terrible scourge.  Still, Darel informs me that their loss was not in vain.  But I think we're being overly sad for a reunion, which should after all be a celebration.  Please allow me to introduce you to Hera, from the Kingdom of Nan and Aranita, from Nkiru of the Sunset."

Kiana watched carefully, petting Coral all the while, as the reunion took place.  She recognized the faced, although she didn't truly know any of the 'new' members of the Alliance.  It had been more than a few months since she had seen them, but was quick to put name to face as others spoke to them.  Perhaps it was the same across the board for them as well, though, because Kiana was much different than the girl they had met just as she joined the crew of the Spring Dryad.  For one, her hair was much shorter...and for two, her body language and countenance was much more open and friendly--to say Kiana had been reserved when she had met the Alliance for the first time would have been a serious understatement.

And though the three months rest had done Kiana a great amount of good in terms of her, well, just about everything for the girl, she remained silent for now, though a smile was prominent on her face as old friends were reunited.  Then when the introductions of the newest members of the Hammerhead crew came about, Kiana would bow deeply (Coral snugged closely in her arms).  "It is a pleasure to meet you both, Hera and Aranita.  I'm Kiana White-Fist."  She said, fighting the impulse to offer Coral as a sort of gift of petting.  She was sure the kitten wouldn't appreciate the hand-off too well, and the thought of the offended 'Mau!' that would come made the young girl giggle--a sound she would have rarely made so many months ago.  She left out her title purposefully, not wanting to be lavished with 'Captain', and, furthermore, not wanting to explain the circumstances of the promotion in the midst of a reunion such as this.  And anyway, she sailed under the flag of Lasuri, so in her mind, he was the only Captain that really needed pointing out, since they were all grouped together like this.  In the Cobalt Alliance, she had quickly found out, rank was not your identity.  Everyone had an equal share, and she was not about to bring undo attention to herself.

"Treon, Darel, I'm glad to see you well!  I hardly recognize the two of you, I am glad to see you back safely."  She said, her words entirely true--though it wasn't from their changing (though grown they surely had) as much as it was that she had not a chance to truly get to know the two of them.  And honestly, there was no better time than now for Kiana to correct that mistake.

Kareth hung back and maintained his status as one of the more antisocial members of the crew.  Truth be told, he probably would not even be here if it hadn't taken place on the Dryad.  With Darel being a sorcerer, Kareth decided that he should be careful about spending time with the man.  He had a similar attitude about Hirdu but there was only so much he could do about that.

When Hera was introduced Kareth's eyes shot open.  Surely this girl isn't....  Despite his misgivings about spending time with sorcerers, he decided to have a discrete conversation with the man using wind carried words.  Simply mouthing the words, Kareth relied on the power of the charm to make the words audible to Darel.  Anyone else who noticed him talking would have to read his lips to understand the question.

[Private to Darel Arwan:
Darel hears Kareth's wind carried words in his ear: "Is she born of an 'Anathama'?"]

[Private to GM: Figured 3 sux was enough to get a suspicion of her origin. :) ]
This message was last edited by the player at 18:07, Thu 29 Oct 2009.

Darel raised an eyebrow, then stared at Kareth, intrigued. His lips moved slightly. [Private to Isole Kareth: "It appears so. She has proved a reliable ally, though. Will you judge her based on prejudice and Immaculate dogma rather than deeds?"]

Again Kareth moved his lips silently.

[Private to Darel Arwan: "I've long since lost faith in Immaculate dogma.  Still, she's a curiosity."]

There was the hint of a mischievous grin on Darel's lips.

[Private to Isole Kareth: "You're certainly right. She's interesting, in more ways than one."]

The young woman besides him nudged him in the ribs with an angry stare. He made an embarassed, apologetic smile.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:03, Thu 29 Oct 2009.

Kareth wondered what Darel's last response meant but decided to not press it at this time.  This form of talking required essence and he didn't want his anima flaring again.  Especially not in front of the sorcerers.  He continued to study the new arrivals though.  He figured he could ask Captain Fireblade if he had heard anything concerning the old Lookshy expedition later.

Aranita smiles softly at Kiana upon being introduced by Treon and welcomed aboard. The girl is slim, with tan complexion and waist length dark hair, wearing at the moment an orange and yellow sari that covers her body but leaves her arms bare, and jewelry around wrists, neck and ankles made from bits of shell and coral. As young, or even younger than Kiana, she appears the shyest of the bunch, though with that shyness is an immense and obvious curiosity.

She bows deeply and respectfully, then looks at everything and everyone wide-eyed. "Thank you, I am honored to meet all of you. I am on my ordeal by journey, I have chosen to leave my island in the distant west to see the outside world." Aranita speaks looking down toward the ground. "We are such a long distance away from my homeland now. It is amazing and humbling, as are the ships you sail on."

Tethia sighs Darel's way, looking plenty disgruntled herself at whatever he is whispering to Kareth. She is also dark haired, but it is a jet black with a blue sheen, heavy and straight, and longer than Kiana's now - a few inches below her shoulders, enough to wind it into a short braid. The practical-minded Water Aspect crosses her arms and focuses her attention on the other Alliance members on the Dryad. "We had our own set of trials among the pelagials, but Megara is safe now, as is this 'Libram' we liberated from their lair. I do not know much about it except it is only half of a whole, and Megara for whatever reason desired to let us keep it."

"It really is a cause for joy," Jadira says warmly, nodding to Treon. She gives Hera a second, briefly surprised look, but does not press the blond haired woman directly, letting her speak whenever she feels ready to.

"I've never even heard of Nan, and Nkiru I only know of because it was Treon and Darel's original destination. But we have crewmen that hail from all over the West, and even outside it. We accept all sorts. Should you stay with the Alliance permanently, we'll find a place for you."

Jadira addresses Aranita's wonderment with a knowing smile. "The Spring Dryad is a rare treasure, and we care for and protect her dearly."

Then the Wood Aspect addresses the gathered group as a whole. "It's early in the day but we are already close to An-Teng. I'd love not to rush the day and spend some time catching up." She looks questioningly toward Lasuri, her gaze falling on the Chalice still on his belt. "Speaking of liberating treasures, we've got another of our own now..."

(OOC: anyone's free to follow up to explain about the Chalice and Rakatau and all that :D)
This message was last edited by the player at 21:58, Thu 29 Oct 2009.

"I am pleased to meet each of you as well." She says either in a rustic Seatongue or an incredibly unsure High Realm depending on what current language is. "I am not suprised you have not heard of Nan, my father. His kingdom and land, Home, has been alone for ages. I am his eyes. I am his words in this world outside Home. This crew has been kind to allow me to travel with them to learn much of this world. I have lent the strength of Nan to them against the pelagials, I think their name was. Many things here amaze me and I wish to learn about the world beyond Home."
This message was last edited by the player at 09:55, Fri 30 Oct 2009.

"We've had some tough times, yeah." Lasuri says, casting a glance towards the now-skeleton crew. He shakes his head, however, agreeing with Treon's assessment that now is the time for celebration. "But I'm really glad to see you back with us, Captain and Mister Arwan. You've faced some tough opposition up north too, from what I've heard." Turning towards Hera and Aranita, Lasuri bows, greeting them both with a warm smile on his face.

"Miss Hera, Miss Aranita, you have my welcome to the Cobalt Alliance. Friends of Captain Fireblade and Mister Arwan are also our brothers and sisters-in-arms - so you're more than welcome among us. We don't own much, but I hope you'll find it to your liking nonetheless."

As Jadira speaks, Lasuri nods wearily, patting the small container tied to his belt. "Yeah, we've actually found what the Lintha were after - this Chalice, hidden inside there. There's a powerful being trapped inside, and it's able to control people's minds - hence why it's locked. I've got this ring here that renders its powers useless, so I pretty much have to keep it with me at all times. Though Mister Kareth found an even better way to lock the thing up..." Lasuri taps the egg-like object he is holding, and once again gives a thankful nod to the engineer.

"The thing was swallowed by Rakatau, an earth behemoth. We had to step inside to actually retrieve it, but the thing had taken hold to the poor creature's innards like some sort of festering tumor. Had even possessed a nymph to do its bidding, and had corrupted a bunch of Jokun - both races servants of Rakatau living inside it. We had to find our way through and take the thing down - all the while Jadira had to face the returning Lintha who were hot on our heels. It wasn't a walk in the park, but we made it. And we even have a new ship, courtesy of Rakatau..." The Captain nods his chin towards the living island-ship, and then smiles to Kiana. "That's Captain White-Fist's ship though, so the Captain can introduce her ship herself."

Scratching the scruffy growth of stubble on his cheek, the Captain looks a bit more pensive then, as if bothered by something. "I suspect the Lintha will want our hides after that. We've got what they're looking for, so they're bound to try to hunt us down. It might be difficult from here on end, at least until we find a way to destroy the damnable thing."

Kiana blushes ever so lightly as Lasuri revealed her for the Captain that she was.  At the explanation of the Jokun and the Nymphs, she was almost sorry that she left her crew back on Akihiro, but only lamented the decision for a moment.  This was a reunion, after all, and adding otherworldly elementals, as much as they belonged to the Cobalt Alliance as any of the others, would have complicated things a good deal (and made for more NPCs for the poor ST to narrate! :P).

Her glance stole across to Aranita a few times as she began to speak, aware that the girl was actually closer to her age, if not younger still.  The mere thought of having a peer in terms of age was something she would have been happy to embrace.  She enjoyed her time with the Alliance, of course, and had grown very fond of Lasuri, Zeru, Jadira, and at least friendly with Tageru and Kareth...but more still, Kiana new what it was like to be far away from home at such a young age.  She was, in fact, still that young age!

"Ah, it seems I've been found out."  She gave a teasing smile to Lasuri, turning to address the Hammerhead crew. "I am Captain of the Spirit-Ship Akihiro, the son of the Seven-Day Isle, Rakatau.  He has been entrusted to the Cobalt Alliance, as a token of Rakatau's favor and his approval of our cause.  Sailing under me are a number of Water and Earth Elementals, the same Nymphs and Jokun who served Rakatau.  If any of you would like, I would be more than happy to give you a tour of the newest ship in the Cobalt Fleet." She finished with a bright smile, all the while petting Coral, who looked as if she were ready to fall asleep under the careful massage of Kiana's fingers.

Treon listens appreciatively to the tale Lasuri tells of the Chalice and the Behemoth.  "A loathsome cup indeed," he agrees.  "The foes we bested ourselves, the pelagials, were fairly grim, twisting and mutating their servants.  But I get ahead of the tale."

"We put ashore on Nkiru, at Umai, Aranita's home.  There we discovered that the Lady Megara might have been investigating an area known as the Black Rock Chasm.  This is also where we met Hera, as well as one of the Dragon Kings, Tomistoma and his thaumaturge servant, Indrid.  On sailing to the chasm, Hera, Tomistoma, Indrid, Darel and myself dived down to try and find our way through the labyrinth, which we did eventually.  Between Darel's demon, and some talking, we managed to persuade one of the pelagials' servants to show us through the labyrinth and to Lady Megara's cell.  There she told us that the servant, Louis, was actually a servant and not a plegial proper.  And she informed us of the Libram which she had actually found, or at least a part of it.  On freeing her, we returned briefly to the surface, to get the wounded remains of her crew to safety."

"After that, it was just a simple case of launching a daring commando raid into the depths of their redoubt to retrieve the Libram from their treasure room," he said with a grin.  There was a lot more to be said there really, but not much to say about it.

"I would be honoured to see the Akihiro, Captain White-Fist," he said.  He would call her by her correct title.  At least once.

"I would indeed be pleased to visit such an interesting vessel, Captain White-Fist," Darel said. The idea of a living ship filled with an elemental crew aroused his curiosity to no end.

"A tour sounds like a great idea," Jadira says encouragingly to Kiana, then returns her attention to Hera and Aranita. Both of them young island women with a desire to see the world, but for entirely different reasons -- and with entirely different physiques, at that. While the blond one is incredibly strong, the dark-haired Aranita looks like she's never picked up a weapon in her life. She says to the two newcomers, "You've both yet to see the Spring Dryad for yourselves, would you prefer to go with Captain White-Fist to the Akihiro, or enjoy the flagship tour?"

"I should warn you, you might be subjected to Lasuri's rambling..." Jadira grins at the Sea Drake; she's just teasing of course, "but she's an impressive vessel. Of course it's up to you whether you'll take lodgings in the Dryad, stay with Treon or one of the other Captains."

Kareth listened patiently to what everyone else had to say, and his eyes arched at the mention of the Librum and quickly interjected, "Captain Hirdu mentioned that a crew from the 7th Legion went in search of the Librum many years ago.  My mother was among that crew.  I am curious as to whether or not you found anything relating to that group on your journey?"

Darel's carelessly blissful mood vanished at Kareth's interjection. "I... I did not know. Unfortunately, I must confess that the circumstances prevented me from noticing anything so specific... I am sorry."

Treon is pleased to see how quickly Jadira seems to take to Aranita.  He wouldn't mind if she chose to sail on in another vessel, although he would be more than happy to continue having the dark-haired lady on the Hammerhead.  If she did decide to stay, he might have to ask Jadira if any of the female crew members of the Dryad might mind a transfer, to give her some more female company.

"When we found the Libram, it had already been taken from the last person to find it, the Lady Megara," he says to Kareth.  "She did not mention the circumstances in which she found it.  However, I'm sure if we were to make enquiries of her, she would mention if she had seen sign of the Lookshy expedition or your mother."

Kareth nodded but then decided to clarify.  "I can only assume that the Lookshy expedition Captain Hirdu mentioned is the same one about which I'm seeking information.  Regardless, she returned from it so I doubt there would be much evidence of her specific presence at this point.  I simply have a personal interest in discovering what happened.  We can Lady Megara at some other point."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:18, Sun 01 Nov 2009.

"Yeah, as Miss Thornbloom says, if someone wants to have a tour of the Dryad, we'll do the honors. Don't feel shy, just ask away." The captain then turns towards Treon, pursing his lips slightly at the recollection.

"Oy, it looks like you've run into a bunch of trouble too." Lasuri says, as those who traveled with the Hammerhead recount their experiences. "Maybe the Pelagials are brewing something of their own, from what you're recounting... Well, the Libram you got is one thing they won't get their hands on. Good job, Captain, and everyone who participated. You're all making the Alliance proud." The Captain smiles and nods at Darel and Hera, a silent gesture of thanks for the services they have performed.

"Do you have any idea what's actually in that book though? That's got to be the reason why people want it so bad, right?" The question is as much directed to Treon as to Kareth, who seems to be at least familiar with the book itself...

"They could be, yes," Treon considered.  "Their vaults were filled with a cornucopia of artifacts, it seemed.  But they themselves seemed almost reclusive.  Something like that can always change, of course."

"The Lady Megara suggested it was a manual of artifice and contruction," Treon replied.  "Beyond that, I can say very little.  The text is entirely beyond me."

Aranita looks thoughtful, and doesn't answer immediately about a preference. To her, both the Dryad and the Akihiro are equally novel and magnificent. However she is not quite willing to push aside Treon's kindness and hospitality just yet.

"I would like to stay with Captain Treon a little while longer," she finally says to Jadira, her eyes politely downturned. "If there is time afterward I would very much like to see more of the Spring Dryad."

An entire other reason makes her hesitant to join the tour on Akihiro, though. "But on the living island... those women..." Aranita glances to Kiana with a mix of nervousness and apology. "Are they not nymphs? My father and his father before him have always warned us to stay away from them... that they will sing a man into a love akin to madness, and drown jealous women under the sea."

"Please correct me if I speak out of turn, but in Nkiru we have never known of a nymph that is friendly and honest."
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:55, Mon 02 Nov 2009.

"Fair enough," Jadira replies to Aranita with a warm smile. She allows Kiana to field the question about nymphs -- after all, they are part of her crew now.

The Dryad's first mate catches part of the conversation about the Libram, and listens curiously. "I remember Captain Hirdu mentioning that particular artifact, Treon. So no one else among you was curious enough to crack it open and read through it?" She includes Darel, Hera, even Tethia in that particular question. Anyone on the Hammerhead who may have had the expertise to understand the book. "Were you were waiting till you brought it here? Which would be kind of you, by the way, sharing the surprise with the rest of us. Or is the book dangerous, the way the Chalice is? Lasuri's endured three months of travel with that thing trying to poison his mind. If not for the ring that he received in the Seven-Day Island, he might be certifiably mad by now." She squeezes Lasuri's arm sympathetically.

"If the Libram's about artifice, maybe Kareth would be the ideal person to interpret what is written there... if you want to read it, and not just destroy it," Jadira finally suggests. "I've studied sorcery and other supernatural subjects, but crafting is sadly beyond me."

Kareth nods and says "I will be happy to examine the book to see what I may learn.  I fear I know little about it other than Captain Hirdu's explanation that people seemed to think it contained secrets for building ships similar to Skullstone's.  Do you have the half-Libram here or is it still on the Hammerhead?"
This message was last edited by the player at 03:58, Wed 04 Nov 2009.

Kiana was a bit surprised by the question, though certainly not upset.  She gave Aranita a patient smile and gave a small shake of her head.  "No Miss Aranita, that is certainly a good summation of what is commonly thought of Water Nymphs, but that is not accurate of my crew in the least.  The Elementals that travel with the Alliance are a unique breed, in the Water Nymphs at least.  Rakatau saw to their every need, so they are not practiced in the art of seducing mortal men, though I'm sure they have a craving now and again."  He amended slightly.  Even Elementals had vices, after all.  "They are hardly stereotypical in any way, however, and you can be very sure of their allegiance and good intentions toward the Alliance and her people, male or otherwise."

"I am interested in seeing both vessels or all of the vessels or places. So I will go with everyone and then join Aranita if there is time. I would also like to know more of these Water Nymphs, these ones here and of the ones more common ones that seem to terrorize the outside. We have nothing like that in Home, not since Nan defeated Fiery Home Held Contained and freed us from his tyranny."

Aranita listens respectfully to Kiana, her expression still vaguely doubtful, but it's clear she wants to believe the young woman recently made Captain. "They sound very different from the stories my father told. But if they are with your Alliance and have not harmed your men, I think they must be good elementals." She edges a little closer to the Earth Aspect, allowing herself a small, shy smile. "Please allow me to accompany the tour on the Akihiro, then. I'll be on my best behavior."

Curious as ever, Aranita's questions toward Kiana continue as the group visiting the island ship starts to gather. "I'm intrigued to meet so many women who travel the sea. Are the women of the Alliance all Chosen of the Dragons or are there passengers like me, or Tya sailing with the men??"

Tethia doesn't look particularly interested in coming along, though she gazes at Akihiro and its elemental crew from the Dryad's railing, scrutinizing them from afar. "If you don't mind, Captain Treon, I'll stay where I am for now. I would like to be here to find out what Kareth reveals from the Libram." Just as likely that she wants some time alone (or as alone as one can be on a ship). Socialization has never been the Water Aspect's strong suit. Jadira at least can find something in common with her... IF what she wants to talk about is ranged weapon tactics.

---

OOC: In case anyone's forgotten, Nkiru is the westernmost island of the Wavecrest Archipelago. The general belief of Wavecrest is that women should remain on land and only men or Tya (women who are treated as part of the male gender, who render themselves sterile and mark themselves with distinctive tattoos) should be sailors. The only exception to this are female Exalts, whom Wavecrest people assume can sail without being Tya, though it may still make them uncomfortable.

Unless requested otherwise, I will wait at most a day, then summarize the ship tour(s) and fast forward things by Wednesday!
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:36, Tue 03 Nov 2009.

Jadira smiles at Hera as well. Listening to the blond woman, she gets the impression the place Hera calls 'Home' is even more isolated than Aranita's Nkiru. "Our invitation remains, you and Aranita can return to see the Dryad whenever is convenient for you. We've still got several days yet before we reach shore, so there's plenty of time."

"If you're up to new experiences, there's a lot to see at our next destination, An-Teng... though there's also some things you might want to avoid. We can talk about that later," the Wood Aspect offers kindly.

[Private to Hera: Are you wearing orichalcum in any obvious way right now?]

The pale golden haired woman smiles, "Wonderful, I do look forwards to it. I am always up for new experiences. It is the will of Nan for me to see all I can so I can relay that to him."


[Private to Jadira Thornbloom: Yes. Lashed to her belt are a set of fine chain orichalcum gloves (Smashfists) and on her arms are two orichalcum bracers set with a hearthstone.]

"Any and all of you are welcomed to tour Akihiro.  He is a gentle and honorable spirit, and will be just as honored as I am to demonstrate the majesty that the Alliance has been blessed with."  Kiana said with a warm smile, her eyes looking to everyone who has expressed interested in touring Akihiro, though her eyes are drawn back to the ever-young Aranita, whom Kiana feels is looking for a bit more familiar ground here on the high seas.

"Do not worry Miss Aranita, I am not offended by your caution.  When confronted with something new, caution is a very proper way to react.  But I can assure you, the Nymphs that make up my crew are certainly the exceptions to what you and your father may have heard." Kiana did not shy away from the girl when she edged closer--instead she seemed to warm a little more, perhaps honored that the girl would try to open up to her.  Kiana knew what it was like to be shy and awkward in such a new situation.

"To my knowledge, the majority of women who current travel with the Alliance are of Dragon Blood, but that is certainly not a requirement.  Captain Zeru's own first mate, Cinna, is not Dragonborn, but she is just as much a part of the Alliance as Jadira or myself.  Everyone is welcome to join us, Elemental, Exalt, Mortal...whoever is in need, and agrees with our tenants, we will not turn away."  She knew well the code the Alliance now, our new Captain, in much part due to her time spent with Lasuri.  Much of the man's passion for the Alliance and their cause had been imprinted onto her, and there was no finer a home for that drive and passion than Kiana's heart.

Seeing as he was responsible for keeping the boats in repair, Kareth had long since familiarized himself with each vessel.  He was also aquainted with Akihiro as he had trained with Kiana over the past several months.  The engineer had planned on studying the Libram while the others toured, but he furrowed his brow at the mention of the new Water Aspect staying with him.  If Tethia wanted to stay and learn what he discovered from the Libram, then she might know enough of crafting to make her both useful and dangerous to him.  "Miss Tethia, if you don't mind me asking, do you have much knowledge in matters of artifice?"
This message was last edited by the player at 04:11, Wed 04 Nov 2009.

Aranita smiles, genuinely happy that Kiana is so patient with her. "The Alliance sounds truly wonderful. Maybe I would like to meet this lady Cinna later on. But it amazes me the storm mothers and nymphs don't get angry and destroy your ships! Women sailors that aren't Tya are supposed to be bad luck, but it looks like your ships are all doing very well." An odd expression crosses the island girl's face, as the slow realization comes to mind that not everything her father and elders said were completely true. Whether by exception, or because they had a reason to hide the truth, they could be wrong!

Tethia frowns at Kareth's question, but answers it without complaint, meeting the Fire Aspect's eyes plainly. "Not particularly, besides what little I have learned to make my own arrows. I am more interested to know what it is we risked our lives diving into the deep ones' domain to get. And why Megara seemed to be very concerned about the book falling into the wrong hands. I do not like to do anything without just cause, so knowing the contents of the book would relieve my curiosity."

"Does that answer satisfy you?" [Private to Isole Kareth: I'd say that it's Tethia having a high Investigation score that's making her curious, not a Craft score. Though as stated she does know a small amount of Craft, probably Wood and Water, and pretty much amateur level compared to you.]

Kareth simply nods as both relief and disappointment wash over him.  Relief that the girl was not yet another person he had to be careful around and disappointment that she would not be of more assistance on future projects.

"It's here," Treon says, reaching into the satchel and producing an impressive looking tome.  Or at least, half of one.  This he hands to Kareth.  "The Libram."

"Of course, Tethia," he says with a nod to her.  "You may stay or go as you will."   Aranita gets a smile, an encouraging smile, for deciding to stay on the Hammerhead, for deciding to go and visit the Akihiro and for her questions of Kiana.  "You will be welcome to stay onboard as long as you wish," he offers additional reassurance.

Darel looked at the tome with a mixture of reverence and sadness. "While I have not been trained in the ancient artifices, I will be glad to lend my magical expertise if it is required."

Island Ship Akihiro - Tour

Akihiro, son of Rakatau, is anything but an ordinary sailing ship. As he entirely lacks sails (being a large earth elemental, rather than a true ship) Kiana explains that he swims to keep up with the crew, much like a tortoise would. The part of Akihiro most analogous to the 'deck' is actually the living island's back, which has grown flat at the top with natural 'rails' around the edges made of earthen ridges to make it safe for passengers to stand on.

Here, several of the jokun and nymphs are lounging in their usual way, which more often than not involves singing or trading tales. These elementals are rarely silent, though of course they keep to quieter amusements when Kiana is sleeping. The jokun like to polish weapons or gemstones, groom one another by extracting plant life, insects or small crustaceans from their earthen skin. The nymphs might braid or style one another's hair, weave cloth or other items from the improbable medium of water, or spend time admiring themselves in the polished shells they use for mirrors.

All of them bow their heads when introduced, and just like Kiana said, are the most well-behaved elementals Aranita has likely ever met. Akuj and Calliope are the unofficial leaders of the jokun and nymphs on board, naming their colleagues one by one. Gral, Solum, Tarsk, Urdu, Norn, Oruk, Vord, Brun and a handful of others comprise the stalwart jokun. Among the nymphs with Calliope are Amathera, Delphina, Precia, Sianessa, Rosamonde, Lysandra, Halcyone, Tallulah, and Nadine. [Private to Kiana White-Fist: I named more of 'em!]

The stranger part about Akihiro is not the exterior of the island ship, but the interior, which can only be accessed through Akihiro's mouth. For the jokun, used to navigating complex rock formations, and the nymphs, who simply dive into the water and swim to the mouth opening, this is easy and even commonplace. For the humans among them, though, it takes some getting used to. Akihiro (with the help of the jokun) has gradually been shaping a convenient staircase leading toward the mouth opening, but for now a rope ladder is extended down from the top of Akihiro's head to his jaw for those with less climbing or swimming skill.

Once the visitors get past the novelty and possible discomfort of stepping into an elemental's mouth, the interior of Akihiro lays before them: a series of caves lit by luminescent fungi that have been adapted into rooms for both function and comfort. Unlike Akihiro's 'father', though, the scale is much smaller, more like the size of a merchant ship, and what water finds its way within is diverted into earthen channels or ducts so that the majority of the floor stays dry. The central chamber is Akihiro's heart room, a crystalline chamber kept clean and empty but for a large, throbbing egg of living crystal embedded into a thick central pillar. Rather than pumping blood, the vessels of this 'heart' pump glittering sand, giving off a sibilant hiss between heartbeats.

Several caverns are used as storage areas and armories, but one of the larger chambers has been appropriated for use as a dojo, another as a meeting room with stone tables and chairs. Kiana has her own Captain's cabin as well, and her own private bedroom and dining area, again with mostly stone-based furniture plus hand-me-downs brought in from the Dryad The elementals don't at all seem concerned with their own privacy, nor do they need the sort of comforts and nourishment humans do, so plenty of rooms remain unused.

Spring Dryad II - Tour

While Kareth preoccupies himself with absorbing the knowledge in the Libram of Adamant Artifice, Lasuri and Jadira prepare a tour on the Dryad for Hera and Aranita when they return. [Private to Isole Kareth: I'll be PMing you the OOC details I've been writing out about the Libram.]

The Spring Dryad II is named for the ship of the same name that Lasuri explains was destroyed in an unfortunate accident. The spirit of the ship lives on in its successor, which was found wrecked and neglected, but not so much it was rendered useless. 'Wrecked' by the standards of First Age construction is still better than most of what the Second Age can produce, after all. But that does not change that the Dryad is still currently damaged, its paddlewheels incapable of attaining maximum speed for more than a short burst of time.

That aside, she is still a fabulous vessel, her superior hull made of a lightweight blend of specially treated wood and organic crystal that shimmers in azure, purples and hints of gold when struck by the sun. She's more compact than most merchant vessels, with but a single retractable mast, but carries an array of five weapons -- a pair each of ballistae and catapults, and a large, rather formidable looking artifact cannon lashed and mounted to the foredeck. The deck itself is less crystalline and more of the water-tight wood, still plenty sturdy enough to weather tempestuous storms and enemy cannon barrages alike. The last most prominent feature of the ship is the figurehead on the prow, carved into the shape of a lady with flowing hair clad in flowering vines, her hand held outward as if blowing a kiss into the wind.

Once Hera and Aranita have seen enough of the exterior, they are guided to a tour of the Dryad's interior facilities. The bridge consists of the pilot's room and the navigation room, windowed on all sides with glass as hard as steel, where a detailed map of the West has been spread out with pins marking locations of importance. The quarterdeck holds the dining area and accomodations for the ships' officers, with the large cabin at the stern shared by the Captain and First Mate. Below deck is where the galley, the sick bay, the armory, and the common crew quarters can be found, and below that the cargo holds and the bilge.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:22, Fri 06 Nov 2009.

2nd Day of Resplendent Earth, RY 768
Location - Cobalt Alliance Fleet, ~1 week NW of An-Teng
Time - Early evening
Weather - Clear sky, light breeze

At the end of the tour, Lasuri and Jadira bring Hera and Aranita back to the main deck of the Dryad, and the other members of the Cobalt Alliance reconvene.

The sun is low in the horizon, and the hue of the sky deepens as the day winds toward evening. Donnegal at the helm directs the men on evening duty, while the rest busy themselves with chores, cooking or friendly card games in the galley. Though normally they are known to be jovial and energetic, there are sometimes awkward silences between them, as if they wait for voices that never come. Even the Dryad herself creaks mournfully as dusk approaches, an evening ode for the departed.

Given the latest series of inter-ship visits, the Alliance fleet has not made very much progress toward An-Teng today. The general consensus is that they will resume full speed the following morning, though some may feel uncomfortable remaining still in the water for so long. Fortunately, the evening is quiet, the weather fair, and no strange curses fall upon the superstitious.

Those who would retire to their own ships can do so, though others may wish to linger to see what Kareth has discovered from the half-Libram retrieved by the Hammerhead.

---

OOC: Moving on, then. Please specify IC whether you'll stay aboard the Dryad for the time being or return to another ship. Also, if you're on deck and attentive of your surroundings, roll Perception+Awareness.

Once Kareth received the Libram, he took his leave and retired to his quarters to study this half of the book.  His excitement grew as he studied the tome.  This was demonstrated by the twitching at the ends of his mouth which could be the beginnings of an attempt at a smile, a facial feature that the brooding engineer never showed without at least of hint of sarcasim being involved.  For the moment, his curiosity about the Libram had even surpassed his curiosity about the young half-caste now in their midst.

The engineer taking his studies to his quarters had little to do with keeping the others from seeing him work and more to do with staying out of the way of the day to day business of the ship.  As such, anyone who came to him to query about the progress of his study was met with only the usual amount of cold annoyance and not any outright hostility.

At the end of his studies, Kareth decides to make a report to the officers of the Alliance.  The slight tinge of excitement in his voice could not be hidden.

"The Libram appears to be an instruction manual.  This half gives me designs for a variety of artifacts of first age quality.  It contains a great deal of knowledge about artifice, lore, and occult and anyone who reads can use it to raise their abilities in those areas.  I can even find blueprints for the class of ship the Dryad belongs to, Captain Leomaris.  There is more, as well.  It gives clues to the location of several first age workshops, including, the one the Alliance has already found."

At this Kareth become more somber and looked to the officers in attendance of his revelation.  "I know for a fact that Lookshy would be interested in the Libram.  According to Captain Hirdu, their last expedition, the one with my mother, ran afoul in Skullstone so we can only assume that they have some sort of connection with it as well.  Furthermore, Lady Megara was from the Realm.  We know of at least three powers who would want this book.  Pragmatically speaking, we are only a few ships strong.  I recommend that we both regulate access to the Libram and try to not let people know we are in possession of it.  Loose lips sink fleets.  This is, of course, only my opinion and it is up to you, as the officers."

In the chill of the evening, Lasuri stands, visibly unperturbed by the cold. His coat and hair dance lightly in the breeze, his gloved hands reaching for his face once in a while to brush away a loose strand of dark blue curls. His expression is solemn, yet hopeful - the face of a man who has seen a heavy burden lifted from him, and yet one who realizes the price that was paid for it.

"Excellent work on decoding that book, Mister Kareth." Lasuri nods to the engineer, obviously very pleased with the progress he speaks of. Despite the overall heavier, darker mood of the crew, Kareth can see that since the Cache Egg has been created and the Chalice was banished to Elsewhere, the Captain seems much more alert and rested. Seeing him now, it becomes evident that the time he spent with the Chalice in his possession must have eroded him in ways he would not dare mention in front of the rest of the Alliance, bearing this burden silently until Kareth provided him with a solution.

For now, the Captain listens to Kareth's explanations, his expression darkening when the implications about the dangers the Libram's possession presents and nodding his agreement of the engineer's assessment. "Yeah, you're right, Mister Kareth. That's certainly something to consider. We'll contain access to that information and keep it as secretive as we can. You should speak of that to Captain Fireblade, since he's the one that found the Libram, but I'm thinking you should be the one to safeguard it."

"In fact... I'm thinking of giving you a rank reflecting those responsibilities, Mister Kareth." The Captain's expression shifts to seriousness, and he gazes off in the distance as he speaks the next. "When I was younger, I was handling that sort of work with my group - you know, being the paranoid one, keeping them safe from possible hidden threats and thinking of ways to keep them safe from less evident dangers. Now, with the Alliance expanding, I'm finding myself being less and less able to devote the necessary time to think of everything, since I have to split my attention between many things and many ships. So I have to delegate."

"You have a good head for these things, Mister Kareth. Your training and mindset make you predisposed to it. You've been key in helping with safeguarding and containing the Chalice when we got it in our hands, and your points concerning the Libram are similarly well-thought of. So here's my pitch here - if you'd be so inclined, I'd make you Chief of Intelligence Security for the Alliance. Your counsel seems to indicate you've been thinking along those lines all along, but I'm thinking of making the responsibility official."

[Private to GM: 18:10, Today: Lasuri Leomaris rolled 2 successes using 6d10 with the White Wolf Exalted system with a target of 7 with rolls of 5,1,9,8,5,6. Per + Awareness. ]
This message was last edited by the player at 02:39, Sat 07 Nov 2009.

Unlike Lasuri, Jadira has her coat buttoned up to the neck again to protect against the chill. The breeze ripples through her wavy brown hair, braided to keep it out of her face. She gazes out from the deck railing, but only briefly, seeing nothing of note. Just the wide blue sea, and the setting sun's rays glittering across the waves.

Though happy for Lasuri's recent freedom from the Chalice, Jadira's expression soon grows pensive and serious. Kareth's report on the Chalice gives plenty to consider. Still, she doesn't react immediately, letting the Dryad captain be the first to speak his mind. Some of what he says, they had already discussed in private, though she wonders whether Kareth would want to accept such a role on top of his work as an engineer.

"I definitely think Treon, Darel and Hera should have the final say about who watches the Libram," the Wood Aspect interjects after Lasuri gives his pitch, but before Kareth can answer. "Though, speaking of security, I agree that we should keep the book, and the fact that we possess it, hidden safely. Eventually, I think that we will have to consider both stepping up recruitment and allying with other groups, such as the Tya or the Emissaries." She names two that she thinks the Cobalt Alliance would have a chance with, but those are by no means the only choices. "Knowing what sort of knowledge and power we're sitting on right now... well, it's not something I think we can hide forever."

"The Chalice, I think we all agree needs to be destroyed. What of the Libram? What will we do with that knowledge if we keep it to ourselves? And should we refuse everyone but our own organization the possibilities that lie in that book? Our role in the future may well be to decide how the technology of old should be used. And I would hope that we can be good role models, a people above and beyond using power for personal gain or political superiority."

Darel listened to Leomaris and Jadira's words with grave attention. The Emissary of Perfect Waters scanned those present, and his eyes came on the Libram in Kareth's care. "I will echo the Lady Thornbloom's suggestion of alliance. While I am of the Emissaries, we are a loose association whose convergent interests and goals include the safeguard of the West's independence. I cannot yet speak on behalf of all of our 'organization', and my participation in the Cobalt Alliance is currently a strictly personal commitment.

Regarding the Libram's safekeeping, I am averse to the idea of keeping it on the seas - it should be taken to a safe location as soon as possible. Immediately following our stay in An-Teng, I would say. Because I doubt that it will remain a secret for long - not with a whole crew of Realm sailors who know its recent whereabouts."

He cleared his throat. "Regarding the sharing of the knowledge contained therein, I must say that I am favorable to negociations with the Emissaries - some of us have the occult knowledge and resources to put it to good uses against the Lintha, Fair Folk, and other enemies of the Western people. I shall abstain from divulging it should the sharing be decided against, but I am clear on my preferences in this matter."

[Private to GM: [OOC: Totally forgot if we were on the deck or not, but here comes: 01:14, Today: Darel Arwan rolled 3 successes using 6d10 with the White Wolf Exalted system with a target of 7 with rolls of 10,1,2,1,9,2. Perception+Awareness.]]
This message was last edited by the player at 23:50, Tue 10 Nov 2009.

True to form expected of an Earth Aspect, Kiana was calm and quiet as she listened to Kareth explain what the Libram held.  The Earth Princess had been fairly well educated during her time on the Crimon Isles, and it was with above average understanding that she soaked in Kareth's words, as well as his concerns and his ideas.  Unlike many on the deck of the Dryad, Kiana wore little in the way of warm clothing--just the earthen red dress that she had been wearing when welcoming the remaining half of the Alliance.  One would think that someone so small as Kiana would be freezing out in the chilly wind with just a bit of a dress.  It took much more than a chilly night to make Captain White-Fist uncomfortable, however.

After Kareth finished, Kiana gave her impressions of what it all meant--waiting her turn to speak, of course.  "Without going into detail over who specifically should watch over the Libram, I find the idea of not keeping it at sea disagreeable."  She said, leaning against the railing as she observed the others, her voice calm and sure, her slate-blue eyes spanning across and making eye contact with nearly everyone there as she spoke, lingering on those she knew more intimately than others.  "The only harbor that the Alliance calls truly safe is Sorrow's Veil, and that is a journey unto itself.  And even if we could safely deposit the Libram there, it would not do to leave it unprotected.  I believe the best course of action, regardless who who attends to the book, is to keep it with the Alliance fleet at all times.  The better for us to protect it, and its secrets."

With that said, Kiana went on to add to the strategic value of the book.

"Using technology as a token of esteem is an age-old tactic, and one that is proven to win friends and allies both.  It is a careful path to tread, however, and something we should not consider lightly.  The wonders of the First Age are called such for a reason--having access to these blueprints and other designs gives us a significant advantage however we decided to distribute or harness them.  Once we share such information with one party, it becomes available to others, after all, for trading further still.  We should be careful who we offer such things, lest we find our gifts used against us later down the line."

Zeru did not have much to say during the reunions, he did not know the others very well and his mind was occupied with thoughts of what was to come. And so he excused himself as the tours were granted and moved back to the Marlena. He practices his flute on the deck and watches the ocean, enjoying the small break. The warm and mellow notes carry in the calm breeze making it to, hopefully, both the spirit ship and the dryad as well.

[Private to Storyteller: 19:16, Today: Peleps Zeru rolled 2 successes using 4d10 with the White Wolf Exalted system with a target of 7 with rolls of 10,5,2,1. (Perception+Awareness).
19:15, Today: Peleps Zeru rolled 4 successes using 9d10 with the White Wolf Exalted system with a target of 7 with rolls of 2,4,7,9,4,4,10,1,2. Performance Flute. ]

"I, too, vote for keeping it at sea," Treon says, after some consideration.  "For a number of reasons.  It was entrusted to us as the Cobalt Alliance, not to anyone else.  Until we can give it to a true ally, I do not think it should leave us.  As you noted, Darel, you cannot speak for all the members of your organisation.  I don't think the Libram should be given to people for whom that is true."

"I also agree with Kiana's point.  It will be far easier to protect here on the sea, surrounded by the officers and crew of the Alliance than languishing in some hidden place on shore.  I think it is better the Libram remain on the Dryad, or perhaps on the Akihiro.  They are both sturdier vessels than Hammerhead and with larger crews.  Her sentiments about the use of such designs mirrors my own."

"With respect to your feelings about keeping it secret within the Alliance," he nodded toward Kareth.  "I am not sure how practical that is.  The crew of the Hammerhead certainly have an idea of what it is about, if not the full scope of it.  I had to explain why we would return to the Pelagials redoubt than sail away immediately.  While I can impress upon them it is something they should not share, they are likely to do so with people they trust--other members of the Alliance--sooner or later.  The Alliance is, I am thankful to say, not the kind of organisation which fosters the attitude which would prevent this.  I think a revelation on our own terms, not one which just happens, is better for keeping the information within the Alliance."

On the Black Marlena

The flute music flows soothingly, pleasing Marlena. The performance drifts faintly toward the other ships, carried there by the evening breeze. Zeru is becoming quite competent with the flute, enough that crewmen from other ships look up and pause for a moment when the melody reaches their ears.

Melusine is proud of the instruction she has given Zeru, and sits nearby to harmonize with his flute playing with her beautiful voice. Brogan and Curran, Cinna and Sunden, and even Antov (long since recovered from his wounds, and better than ever!) come up to the deck to listen. Phantasmal black feathers drift down around the two performers.

At one point, Melusine falters in her singing, suddenly standing alert. Her face turns toward the south. "I hear something... strange... the waves tell of a dark tide coming."

On the Spring Dryad II

Loukan Hirdu, Captain of the Hirdu's Ambition, has opted to come aboard this time. He is obviously Southern, with dark hair and a mustache greased at the edges, sporting a pot belly despite his strong upper body.

Hirdu's initial reaction to Kareth's report is completely at odds with Treon's desire for a planned revelation. "By the forge gods of Fire Mountain, I never thought you'd actually find the Libram! Or even half of it!" he crows loudly, pacing back and forth while the other Alliance members give their opinions and points of view about the Libram, the responsibility it represents, and where or how it should be guarded.

By the time another opportunity comes for him to speak he's calmed enough to quiet down... somewhat. "This discovery is an incredible advancement for the Alliance!" the rotund captain says in a dramatically hushed voice. "We could train a competent crafting and repair team, restore the Dryad to her former glory, upgrade our mundane AND artifact equipment... and we have to keep it to ourselves? Such a shame. Damn politics to Malfeas, if you ask me!"

Aranita is more or less lost in terms of understanding the significance of the conversation, though she hides a giggle at Hirdu's almost comical excitement. Tethia, on the other hand, is her usual distant, standoffish self, distracted by something off the starboard bow. Kiana and Darel glance in that direction and notice something as well... [Private to Darel Arwan: You've just barely glimpsed the shape of a ship coming toward the Alliance fleet from the south. From this distance you aren't sure yet what kind of ship it is, or whether it may be accompanied by others. However the ship does appear somewhat larger than the Hammerhead, and bears black sails. It's still pretty far off, so the Alliance has time to react.]

[Private to Darel Arwan; Hera: BTW, have either or both of you decided which of the Alliance ships you'll stay with?]
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:13, Sun 08 Nov 2009.

Jadira smiles wryly at Hirdu's expected reaction. Keeping it silent, indeed... She doesn't expect that to last very long, at least among the Alliance ships. Outside it, now that would have to be controlled.

"I think for now we'll have to keep the Libram with us, in any case," she points out. "Sorrow's Veil is north from Wavecrest, we're many hundreds of miles away from there now. And I wouldn't trust keeping it in An-Teng either -- though I've a Manse there, it's not nearly as secure as it ought to be."

"We'll need to make an announcement to all our crew members before we get to An-Teng, to warn them about keeping the book secret, and other things." Her gaze flicks over to Hera, or more importantly, the orichalcum she wears.

"I don't think anyone is suggesting we give the Libram away, though," she says, addressing Treon's earlier words to Darel. "More like selective pieces of the knowledge within, as bargaining chips. In any case, while Darel is not the leader of the Emissaries, he certainly has some weight in the organization, and their cause to create a united West is far from threatening to us. When we are done with our business in An-Teng, we ought to consider a meeting with them."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:29, Sun 08 Nov 2009.

"Yes, we could do all of that... and we could still be sunk by a fleet with superior numbers," Kareth responds to Hirdu.  "Trust me, Captain.  I'm as eager as you to train a repair crew, begin the full restoration of the Dryad as anyone here, and create true wonders.  We can still do these things too.  But those things require time and the book does us little good if we're dead because we drew too much attention to ourselves."

The engineer then turns to respond to Lasuri's mention of a new title.  His words are measured, precise, and delivered in his usual drab tones.  "Captain Lasuri, I'm not one for titles.  If that's what you need me to do and what you wish to call me then I will comply.  I will point out that I lack certain skills which would be helpful.  I will have to ask others in the crew for help in those areas.  I'll work on increasing my personal skill in those areas as soon as possible."

Those who witnessed both Kareth's and Kiana's acceptance of new duties might note several differences between the two Dragons. Kiana had, after all, humbly accepted the new duties and titles with pride.  Karth's voice carried neither humility or pride.  It simply relayed information with cold precision.  He would accept the job, but he will need to call on other's expertise.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:13, Sun 08 Nov 2009.

Zeru looks to the south, but is relatively sure he doesn't see anything. "My lady, please steer us closer to Akihiro, if something's out there Kiana will see it." He pauses a moment and amends his statement. "That is if you don't see it already."

In the time Kiana had spent with Kareth over the past few months, her opinion of the man had changed.  Oh, he was peculiar enough and certainly a darker man for it, but that didn't stop him from being a good man.  "Kareth, you should try to have a little more faith in your abilities.  You are a quick study--I'm sure whatever abilities you think that you may lack will be quickly addres-"  Her words were cut off as something out in the water caught her incredibly sharp eye.

Kiana moved swiftly to the opposite side of the deck, leaning against the rail as her eyes narrowed, tightening her already impossibly acute vision before she was satisfied with what she saw.  Her tone was very serious as she spoke next, her face still out towards what she saw.

"Captain Lasuri, there are two ships on the horizon, and they are approaching very swiftly.  They are flying the colors of Skullstone."

She turned away from the rail and looked at the others.  The good news was that Kiana didn't exactly seem worried about this, or at least it didn't show in her face.  That was entirely likely that it was her adept Martial Arts training that kept her so stoic.  Or, perhaps, it was something else.  "One of them is an artifact warship, Captain, comparable to the Dryad.  That one is captained by the Dread Pirate Moray Darktide--I'm not sure about the other one.  They'll reach us if fifteen minutes time, by the looks of it."

"From what I can tell, they are not hostile, sir.  If they have blood in mind, they are entirely too calm about it--and poorly planned for it as well.  Their sailing formation is hardly ideal for any navel strategy I'm aware of.  They are well armed, but they are not readying those weapons, or preparing to board--in fact, I don't think they even suspect they have been spotted, Captain."  Kiana observed, a small smirk on her face.  It was entirely possible that this was going to be a battle, and if that were the case, heaven help those approaching ships.  The Alliance was united again, and more than ready for whatever the dark tide brought to them.  It was her fond hope, however, that that wasn't the case.

"Captain Darktide is a well known enemy of the Lintha." She offered to the others, before their decisions were made up entirely.  "It is more than likely that our exploits against this common foe has reached his ears.  What he would do with that information, though, I cannot second guess."  Though she -did- have her theories.  Fifteen minutes was more than enough time to prepare for what could be a bloody battle, however, and with her mind already working on how to quickly overtake and dominate such a battle, she made her preparations quickly.

Akihiro, a potential enemy sails to us.  I do not believe they have hostile intentions, but in case they do I want to be ready to overtake them as quickly as possible.  Tell Calliope and Akuj to take shelter and ready my people--I want for you to submerge yourself as quickly as possible, and tell them to be ready for battle--if these stranger's prove dangerous, I want to surprise them with your power.  Can you do this for me?

One of the gifts she shared with her ship, Kiana had learned the ability to communicate with the Island-Ship with thoughts alone.  How many captains employed such tactics, and with a spirit-ship!?  Her tactics were especially brutal, though the others would only see Akihiro submerging.  If things went sour, she would have her ship capsize one, or even both of the ships with his surfacing.  Rising stone on the hull of a ship was an easy recipe for victory on the open seas, and it also promised that few of their own people would die in the process--as well as fewer of their men, if done quickly enough.

Kiana waited to see what the rest of them had to say, however.

Kareth had been preparing the laundry list of skills he completely lacked which would be helpful in the new duties as soon as Kiana had started speaking.  Unfortunately, her never finishing the sentence deprived the engineer of his rebuttal.

"We're in the middle of the sea.  If they were looking for us, how would they even find us?  Regardless, we need to hide our new... literature."

With that Kareth takes the Libram and hides tucks it behind his cloak.

Treon frowned as Kiana relayed her intelligence to those present on the deck.  "I've not heard much of Moray Darktide, but very few things I hear of Skullstone are good.  I will return to the Hammerhead until they have announced their attentions one way or the other.  It is easy enough to row back over here should they wish to talk and if they do not, I would rather be on my ship.  Tethia, if you would accompany me?", he asks of the woman who is somewhere between his second and a completely independent agent.  "Darel, you can return with me or stay here, as you wish.  It might be safer should fighting break out, Aranita, on this ship."

When all who are returning with him have decided, Treon has his crew row back to the Hammerhead.  He raises his voice as he gets there.  "Everyone look lively, we have two ships from Skullstone sailing in.  We don't know of their intentions, but if they prove hostile then they will need to be shown the error of their ways and the foolishness of attacking the Cobalt Alliance."

As the various members of the Alliance speak, Lasuri listens intently, his brow furrowed slightly in thought. As the decision on what to do with the Libram is something that regards the whole of the Alliance, he lets everyone express their thoughts and opinions on the matter, unwilling to direct or push the issue one way or the other. Whatever they decide should be a democratic call, after all. When Kareth speaks, he turns towards the engineer, shaking his head softly.

"Don't worry, I won't burden you with titles when you don't desire them, as you've mentioned before. I'm just saying this because things need to get reorganized - we've lost so many people in our last engagement, I need to reassign people and know who will take care of what. As for the skills... Don't worry too much about it. What I like and trust is your judgment and approach to situations - you think things through, like a military man. If you need certain skills, I can try to assign you people who know about them to help make your decisions. In the end, it's your mind that the most important bit of the puzzle."

"As for the book... Well, seems like we should keep it more under wraps for the time being. We need to discuss this further, obviously, weigh the pros and cons of each approach and..." Lasuri's explanation and thoughts are cut short, however, when Kiana speaks her warning. "Of all the times... What does Darktide want with us?" The Captain utters while staring in the distance, using a hand to shield his eyes from the sun's rays. Of course, the question if rhetorical, more of a question to fate itself than one meant to be answered by anyone in assistance.

"Allright, everyone prepare to see what they want. I want everyone ready to respond if it turns out to be hostile. The Dryad is functioning with a severely reduced crew right now, so we cant's stand to to toe. All Captains, strategies are up to you, I completely trust your judgments and abilities - the only request I make is that whatever you do, you also prepare to make an exit. If it gets heated, we can't risk more losses before we get to An-Teng. If needed, we should engage quickly and fiercely, and make our break."

"I want the Archers keeping Moray and his ally in sight, Miss Thornbloom. Until we figure out what in Malfeas they want, we shouldn't let them come up close unscathed."

Turning back towards the approaching ships, the Captain advances to the front of the Dryad, awaiting Moray's arrival and seeing if his intentions are hostile in any way.

Black Marlena

"There are two vessels, about the size of a large yacht," says Marlena matter-of-factly. She hasn't materialized, as it takes a great deal of energy to do so, and she may well need all the power she can spare. "Details are minimal from this distance. Their sails are black, though, how quaint."

The courier-spirit scoffs, but does not shirk on Zeru's request, maneuvering so that they remain close to the Akihiro, only to find that Kiana has passed orders to the island ship from the Spring Dryad. "I will speak with the Spring Dryad, that fancy priss." Zeru can feel the presence of Marlena disappear from the ship, though not entirely. Part of her is tied to her 'home', after all.

The spirit of the Dryad and Marlena commune quietly, so that when Marlena returns to Zeru she can report the full situation. Ships from Skullstone approach swiftly, led by Captain Moray Darktide. The Alliance should be battle ready but on standby, in case conflict can be averted.

"Was startin' to think we'd make it ashore without any trouble," says Antov, hefting his chopping sword, as the crew of the Marlena assemble and await any further instructions.

Akihiro

It will be done, Kiana, comes Akihiro's ponderous reply. In the three months they have had to communicate and bond, he has become as much a friend as a means of transportation. Though I am curious about these newcomers and their ships, I want to protect you and your friends as well. We will submerge and await your signal to attack.

In the next few minutes, Kiana and others can watch as the beautiful nymphs dive easily into the water, while the strong jokun climb toward the mouth of the island ship to fetch their blades and axes. Once Akihiro 'swallows' the elemental crew, he gradually begins to sink beneath the waves, until the water swallows up the crest of his head, and finally the flat top of his back that serves as the deck. What disturbances can be seen of his movement from above are negligible, as none of the elementals need to breathe.

We are in position, Akihiro thinks to Kiana. Then comes a childish thought, tinged with sorrow. I hope they are not bad people.

Dryad/Hammerhead

Tethia nods sharply at the suggestion by Treon to return. Though she doesn't speak often, she has in fact gained a measure of respect for the Fire Aspect during the Black Rock mission and the months after. Treon knows he can depend on her to remain calm and focused in uncertain situations, and she's a keen shot with a bow.

Aranita looks surprised and a bit confused when Treon suggests that she stay. "But... I... are you sure...?" She looks between him and Kiana, who has remained on the Dryad's deck. It's obvious that the island girl is attached to Treon, but also wants to learn more about the young woman who apparently has earned the right to be a captain in her own right. And with a living island ship, like something out of a picture book!

So Aranita stays, and Treon and Tethia return to the Hammerhead. Black Reed nods sharply as the Captain briefs the crew on the current situation. "Captain Kossuth never had the pleasure of facing Moray Darktide at sea, though his reputation is well-known among pirates. Despite the association with the dead island," and here Black Reed reflexively makes a superstitious warding sign, "he's a man that keeps his promises, and respects parleys."

Tethia takes her place at the implosion bow, while Reed shouts to the crew to get battle ready. The other crewmen look thrilled at the prospect of some action. Mere months have not entirely erased the bloodlust they embraced when under the influence of the Siakal cult, though Treon may be pleased to see they exhibit more restraint and fewer complaints than they once did.

On board the Spring Dryad, Jadira listens pensively to the report from Kiana, and Lasuri's orders afterward. "You got it, Captain," she replies to Lasuri, promptly assuming her role as first mate and gunnery sergeant.

Jadira's commands are sharp and sure, directing a half-dozen archers led by Amon to arm themselves, while two more pairs under her command serve as artillerists, taking up position at the ballistae. We'll eventually have to replace those with better grade weaponry, but it's probably not a good idea to overload the Dryad with artifacts. Kareth does have a point. She tries not to think too hard about how the gunnery crew has been reduced to half strength... not even enough to take control of all the artillery available.

"If Darktide's sailing a light warship like ours, about the only thing that's going to dent it's hull is this baby." The Dryad's first mate steps up to the foredeck, where the large essence cannon salvaged from the Hammerhead has been securely attached. "Kareth... sorry to borrow your power again, but can you send a message to the Hammerhead? Tell them to aim their implosion bow toward the ship accompanying Darktide's. That way both of our big guns'll be locked on them."

Her hands deftly adjust the controls, obviously already accustomed to the cannon's functions. "Eventually we'll have to come up with some uniform method of ship-to-ship communication. Learning the trick to whisper to the wind would help," Jadira adds wryly. She'd meant to, but her warfare lessons with Kiana took priority. "But that's something we'll figure out later."

With a satisfied smile, she completes the calibration and aims the large cannon at the bow of the Skullstone artifact ship. Let'em try to threaten us now.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:06, Tue 10 Nov 2009.

Somewhere in all the excitement and preparation, Loukan Hirdu prepares to return to the Ambition, but not before a friendly parting shot toward Kareth. "Believe me, we'll talk more about the Libram later. And what applications we can safely implement. Don't be such a pessimist!" Of course the jolly captain and blacksmith might consider Kareth's pragmatism to be one step away from fatalism. But Hirdu's also the one that got caught by Lintha Hazhain Sul in the first place, before the Alliance came into the picture.

Captain Hirdu claps Kareth on the shoulder, then nods to the rest of the Alliance still aboard the Dryad. "Well, time to go, good sirs and madams. The Ambition will provide more artillery support should the situation get nasty. Don't have all that much manpower either, sadly, so ranged support's the most ideal. We've got plenty pitch grenades and incendiary arrows to bring to the fight." He salutes and disembarks on one of the lifeboats, rowing back to the Ambition with the aid of two of his accompanying crewmen.

By the time the Alliance members have returned to their respective ships and stations, the Skullstone vessels have sailed close enough for even the least aware individual to see (assuming they're looking due south). Moray Darktide's warship -- with its forbidding dark steel hull and fixtures of brightly bleached bone -- and the other medium-sized vessel appear to be slowing down the closer that they get. Their black sails blend in with the deepening dusk, along with a flag displaying a white circle on a black field, the insignia of Skullstone.

Figures can be seen moving around on the Skullstone decks now, crewmen that everyone knows cannot possibly be human. One knowledgeable about the undead might be able to figure out from their mannerisms what sort of beings they are, even from afar. Regardless, they and their captains still refrain from any overt sign of hostility.

---

OOC: Everyone else except Treon (Hammerhead) and Zeru (Marlena) is assumed to be staying on the Dryad unless otherwise noted. (Darel and Hera, if you disagree it's a good time to say now!)

Also, roll Int+Occult if you would like to figure what sort of spookies Moray and co. have aboard. My next post will detail more about what they're up to, but I'm pausing here to give more space for people who haven't reacted yet to post (or for others to react further).
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:19, Tue 10 Nov 2009.

Zeru smiles at Antov. "Don't count this as a fight just yet. If we're lucky he may just want to congratulate us on defeating the lintha, I mean how many people around here actually like them?" He looks back on the ship, nothing he had seen could have prepared him for the manner of creatures on the ships.

"That being said... gear up, I'd rather not be caught slacking should he decide he wants something we got, or that we're too much of a good thing to let sail happily through the waters of the western seas." He gently touches Melusine on the shoulder. "That was a great catch," He says. He didn't want her to get hurt when the fighting started but she heard what Zeru couldn't see amidst his playing no less. She might have other tricks, but the loss of ones sight is a huge disadvantage, and it hasn't been overly long since she lost it, he didn't know how she would handle herself in a combat situation. "I won't send you away, but you're free to head into the hold if the situation comes down to fighting."

Turning back he calls out. "Cinna, I'd like my first mate up here with me," He smiles warmly and lovingly. "You're an officer in the alliance, so you ought to be present for negotiations and pleasantries."

Darel had noted, distractedly, the emergence of the two vessels... And was both disappointed and relieved that their discussion was to be reported at a later date. More time to prepare sound arguments and make a solid case...

As Akihiro sunk under the waves, he made a thumbs-up sign at Kiana. "That is quite a neat trick, Captain," he said with genuine excitation in his voice. Then he followed Treon as he returned to the Hammerhead, followed by his neomah.

"I hope the Skullstone people have no ill intent," he told Treon. "Because while they are dwellers of the Western seas, I place them just a bit below the Lintha on my "kick-out" list. At any rate, be assured that my sorcery will be unleashed should they make a hostile move. If you have a crew member who is capable with ranged attacks and not afraid of heights, let me know."

And then his voice took on a musical accent as he spoke the language of the Old Realm: "Zorodeanès, prepare to cloth yourself in flesh and take off," he told his agata, seemingly speaking alone. "K'raelden, at my command, be ready to engulf the two incoming ships in your mists, and prey on the crews at your leisure... Do not hinder or harm the Alliance ships under any circumstances."

He then went to his cabin, his neomah on his heels. "Kathelane, prepare your poison pins, stay by my side. Use your illusions wisely if I am assaulted during spellcasting." He picked up his store of throwing knives, and his sesselja from its resting place on his desk, before pocketing it. "Thuulandr, I may need you to stitch flesh back together."

He came back on the deck. That was quite the alert. He eyed the approaching ships warily, gauging the numbers and nature of the shambling host onboard the vessels of the undead nation.

[Private to GM: [OOC: You rolled 3 successes using 8d10 with the White Wolf Exalted system with a target of 7 ((5,2,7,4,6,4,4,10)).]]

The engineer simply looks at the Hirdu as he quips.  "Aye Aye, Ma'm," Kareth then says and quickly relays the message to the Hammerhead.  He then begins to study the crews of the approaching ships.

[Private to GM:
Isole Kareth rolled 5 successes using 8d10 with ... rolls of 5,4,8,10,6,9,9,2. Whose da spook?. ]
This message was last edited by the player at 03:12, Wed 11 Nov 2009.

Black Marlena

Antov chuckles heartily at Zeru's comments, though he squints uncomfortably toward the approaching ships. "Can't argue with that, the Lintha are a scourge many would be glad to be rid of."

At the call to gear up, the crew of the Marlena follow Antov's example and retrieve their weapons, armor and bucklers, gear that Captain Hirdu of the Ambition has recently blessed and improved in quality. Along with Antov's chopping sword, Brogan and Curran wield a pair of boarding axes, Cinna a slender, accurate rapier and Sunden a pair of long knives (with many more still strapped and sheathed to his body, of course).

Melusine smiles at Zeru's compliment, then hesitates when he mentions hiding in the hold. Finally she says, "I would like to remain. I can tell you more about the nature of the Skullstone captains and crew, perhaps even distract their minds. I can take water form if I sense too much danger." The blind nymph concentrates visibly, and after a moment murmurs to Zeru her findings, her tone indicating some amount of shock and surprise. [Private to Peleps Zeru: Melusine is using the spirit charm 'Measure the Wind'! She tells you that Moray Darktide is a Solar Exalt of Essence 4. There is also a second Solar Exalt with Moray (Essence 3). He has 40 War Ghosts, 10 Nemissaries and 5 Ghost-Blooded. The second vessel has an additional 25 Shadowland Mortals (elite soldiers), and its Captain is amazingly ALSO a Solar, but a young one (Essence 2). The Alliance may well have just encountered part of a Solar Circle devoted to Skullstone.]

Cinna steps up beside Zeru when he summons her, smiling warmly, though her face furrows with worry. "I admit, I'm a bit weirded out by the idea of making deals with the dead. But if we can avoid too many risks, I wouldn't complain."

Hammerhead

In turn, Darel's demons acknowledge his orders, and prepare themselves accordingly. He feels K'raelden acknowledge him and drift away underwater, still dematerialized, positioning himself so that should he take mist form, he will leave the Alliance ships out of the perimeter. Between the eristufa and Akihiro, Skullstone has quite the surprise waiting for them.

Zorodeanès hovers unseen and obediently, so close Darel can faintly hear the pleasant buzzing of her(?) wings. Thuulandr's emotions through the binding are like a ball of expectant energy. Kathelane, the only one materialized, smiles confidently and replies, "It would be my pleasure, master." She draws a pair of aconite dusted pins from her hair with fingers too delicate to be quite human.

Tethia waits for Darel to complete his orders to the unseen beings that serve him, then remarks, "I am a ranged combatant, Darel, though it seems more appropriate that I stay with the implosion bow at this time." Having heard Kareth's message, she swivels the artifact weapon to aim at the second ship beside Moray's, her hands steady on the controls as she tracks the Skullstone vessel's progress.

"Hailstorm and Zir are the other ranged attackers; they usually man the sailcutters." The two ex-pirates Tethia names raise their heads curiously and a little apprehensively when pointed out. They're hard-bitten men, but sorcery and consorting with demons still gives them the creeps. "I'm curious what you mean about 'heights', though."

Skullstone Ships

At 500 yards away, the warship and accompanying yacht come to a dead stop in the water. This gives Darel and Kareth plenty of time to consider the type and number of beings they can see aboard. [Private to Darel Arwan: Moray's warship carries about 50 of a mixed group of many War Ghosts, several you suspect are Nemissaries and a handful whose origin you can't quite place. On the other vessel you see 25 other figures, which you realize are not actually the zombies you assumed them to be, but mortals (this makes more sense as you realize zombies are too awkward and dumb to be much use as sailors).][Private to Isole Kareth: You're able to differentiate about 40 War Ghosts, 10 silver-masked Nemissaries and 5 Ghost-Blooded on Moray's ship, and about 25 elite mortals (not undead, but likely seeking to be one day, given Skullstone's culture) on the other ship. You would also know that Moray is a Solar, and you assume the other Skullstone Captain is also an Exalt but cannot tell immediately what type.]

Only then do the Skullstone troops start to arm themselves. There are about three scales of them between the two ships. Arrows are nocked, bows drawn taut, artillery readied with the creak of turning gears. A telltale glimmer from the deck of the warship indicates the activation of an implosion bow. No projectiles are fired, so it appears to be more a show of strength and numbers, but the mood that settles over the encounter is tense.

At this point there is further movement on the Skullstone warship. A handsome man with long hair in a dark-hued naval greatcoat, very likely Moray Darktide, is giving some further orders. The Cobalt Alliance may react or simply look on as six others are selected among the Skullstone crew to descend with Moray in a rowboat onto the gently rolling sea. [Private to Peleps Zeru: With Moray is the other Solar (female), one Nemissary and four War Ghosts who are there mostly to row the boat.][Private to Darel Arwan: Five of those accompanying Moray on the rowboat are undead crewmen, but one (a woman) appears completely mortal to your eyes.][Private to Isole Kareth: Moray is accompanied on the rowboat by 1 Nemissary, 4 War Ghosts and another female figure (not the second Skullstone Captain) you are certain is NOT undead. Perhaps another Exalt?][Private to Cynis Tageru: One of the figures accompanying Moray Darktide is a woman that looks very familiar to you, though it's harder to tell why from a distance.]

---

OOC: While I'm on the subject of numbers, I will allow an Int+War roll if you want some hints from me considering the odds should this become a conflict. No need for Join Battle unless you're really paranoid, and intending to attack.
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:37, Thu 12 Nov 2009.

"Yes, I would prefer that you man the Implosion Bow," he nods to Tethia.  "It will be that much more effective in your hands than mine, should things go south," he says.  "I believe Darel is proposing to send one man aloft on his ... wasp," Treon says.  "I think concealing we have demons might be wiser however, as where there is one, there could be more.  If they don't know, then a strike from surprise becomes possible," he says as he catches Hailstorm and Zir's reluctance.

"What is he intending?" Treon muses out loud as Moray enters the rowing boat.  As he does, he tries to assess the situation they found themselves in.  If things did go wrong, Moray would probably be on the Dryad, but so would most of the Dragonblooded in the Alliance. Which left the ships.  One of them probably similar to his own Hammerhead, one similar to the Dryad.  Which left the fight ... where?
[Private to GM: 00:26, Today: Cathak Garel Treon rolled 4 successes using 6d10 with the White Wolf Exalted system with a target of 7 with rolls of 2,9,2,9,10,5. Waaaaar!.]

Kareth quickly relays the information he gleaned to Lasuri while waiving Jadira and Kiana over so that they might hear his assessment of the crew.  "Morray's crew seems to be composed of 2 score War Ghost, 10 Nemissaries, and 5 Ghost-bloods.  The ghost-bloods could wield necromancy."  Kareth thumbed the knotted cord hanging from his belt at this last assessment, but quickly moved on in his report.  "The other crew appears to be all mortal with an Exalted Captain.  Morray appears to be a golden anathama but of what type I don't know yet.  As for the other captain, I do not know what sort of Exalt he is."

As Kareth continued watching he continued to relate what he noticed to the officers, "It appears Morray is coming with one Nemissary and 4 war ghost.  I don't know what the other... person...  is.  The Nemissary will be the one in the silver mask."

At the prow of the Spring Dryad II, Lasuri watches the going-ons carefully, eyes narrowed and lips tightened as he tries to understand what is occurring and what Moray Darktide might actually be thinking. A quick analysis of the situation shows that whatever maneuver he is currently planning on is putting the Skullstone Captain at a possible disadvantage and that is something that puzzles the Sea Drake. Darktide has not survived this long and earned this big a reputation in the West by doing foolhardy or stupid things, after all. No matter how this looks, there must be a plan behind this all.

"Thanks for the reports, all." He calls out, when people make their assessments of who and what are accompanying the mysterious pirate Captain. "Pass that information along and make sure the other ships are up to date and on the same page as us." Lasuri adds, speaking directly to one of the Dryad's mates responsible for ship to ship communications.

"I want everyone to stay into position in case something goes wrong, but I want this to be clear - everyone is to remain on standby only. I don't know yet what Darktide is up to. That worries me, but the Alliance will not be the one to strike the first blow, especially unprovoked."

Turning towards Kareth and Jadira, Lasuri nods grimly, his expression much more serious than usual. "I want a boat readied on our side as well. From the looks of it, it seems our 'guests' are taking an approach of deterrence - which means they might actually be trying to parlay. If that's the case, we'll hear what he has to say, even though I'm highly suspicious."

Having completed his preparations, Darel nodded to Tethia, Hailstorm and Zir. "Very well. Riding a horse-sized wasp could foul your aim if you are unused to it."

He turned towards the two Skullstone ships, arms crossed. "I do not think K'raelden will be as efficient as usual against a ship crewed by ghosts and other dwellers of the lands of the dead," he told Treon. "But at least its mist form should allow the Alliance to disengage if need be."

Kareth quickly rattles off a message to Darel using wind spoken words.  "Flagship: forty War, ten Nemissaries, five ghost blood. Moray is Solar.  Other: twenty-five mortals. Captain is female Exalt.  Relay to Hirdu."  He then rattled off the same message to Zeru.

[Private to Darel Arwan: Since English isn't your native language, you might get a little lost with what I was saying.  I tried to shorten the number of words to be less than 25, but it should contain the same information I gave
Lasuri in my last post concerning the nature of the skullstone crew.  You probably didn't need this explanation since you obviously speak the language well, but I figured I'd include it just in case.]
This message was last edited by the player at 02:37, Fri 13 Nov 2009.

Kiana scrutinized the ships as they drew closer, and even more so as the smaller vessel, harboring Morray and some crew members.  It was a curious tactic, and one that smacked of diplomacy and not treachery...but still, Kiana was not one to go on assumptions.  That was the quickest way to admit defeat, and she would not have it.  No, it was best to consider all avenues, and this could very well be a distraction tactic.  Kiana hated assuming the worst, but in honesty, while she did assume the worst, she really did hope for the best.  With all her heart she hoped it was a diplomatic situation, and not more fighting.  True, it had been almost three months since she had been forced to draw blood in the name of the Alliance, but that didn't seem hardly long enough to the Earth Princess, skilled at war as she was.

She was silent for now, trusting that Leomaris already had his own strategies in mind, though the look on her face suggested that she was still in communication with Akihiro.

Cobalt Alliance

The uncomfortable face-off continues. Numbers between the two forces are close to even, if one counts Akihiro lurking below, but Kareth's report brings to light some advantages on the opposing side. Solar leaders, war ghosts, possibly even necromancers... the situation could get ugly, should they be too hastily provoked.

Still, Captain Lasuri's insistence on standby is the prevailing order. Jadira's cannon remains pointed toward the Skullstone warship, too far away for its essence blasts to reach. Tethia stays with the implosion bow as commanded, keeping her aim steady on the second Skullstone ship. Artillery pieces on the Dryad, Hammerhead and Ambition are loaded and ready to fire on command. Anyone not currently manning ballista or catapult with the skill to wield a bow holds one in his or her hands.

Answering Lasuri's request, two crewmen on the Dryad ready the lifeboat to be lowered into the water, just in case. All that remains then is to decide who will board it with him.

Skullstone

The figures rowing Moray Darktide's boat still their oars exactly halfway between Skullstone's vessels (packed with undead archers and artillerists) and the Cobalt Alliance fleet. At 250 yards away, most everyone can pick out each individual figure in the rowboat. Besides Moray Darktide himself, there are four figures in blackened steel armor, their pallid hands and faces a stark contrast to their dark clothing. Another figure wears a more ornate black armor decorated with silver glyphs, and an expressionless mask wrought in silver.

The last member of the group, seated closest to Moray, is the only obvious female: slender and beautiful with golden blonde hair, she has a sweet, serene face that belies her youth. Her presence seems distinctly out of place among the Skullstone elite, as she lacks any of the trappings of the dead, wearing a robe of white and blue like the hue of seafoam and waves. Yet she appears calm and self-assured despite the darkness that surrounds her.

When the rowboat stops, Moray confidently rises to his full height. His windswept hair is a brown color, his square-jawed face pleasant to look at. The greatcoat he wears is a blue so dark it may as well be black, the epaulets made of human skulls. He lacks a hat, but wears an eyepatch, and carries a sheathed weapon that looks to be the size of wavecleaver daiklave. One might think that Moray is trying a little too hard to look the part.

"Cobalt Alliance, should my reputation precede me - and surely it ought - you would know me as Moray Darktide of Skullstone, Captain of the Last Will and Testament. Sailing the Bride in Ashes is the ravishing Bittersea Blackfalcon," he gestures to the Skullstone yacht, where a curly haired woman in black corset, leggings and over-the-knee boots stands at the prow; she raises a firearm toward the sky and pulls the trigger with a bang! "Accompanying me is my lovely negotiator, Silver Shell, whose words are leagues more eloquent than mine." Here Moray gestures to the blonde seated beside him.

"Captain Leomaris, lesser known you may be, but even I have heard you are a man of honor, just as your Alliance is one of good deeds. Let us meet here in the middle, for all our crews to witness, and speak of our common enemy, whose waters are so uncomfortably near."

[Private to Peleps Zeru: Moray, Bittersea and Shell are the Solars Melusine mentioned (Essence 4, 3 and 2 respectively)]

Jadira doesn't step away from the Dryad's cannon, or even look behind her toward Lasuri, though she addresses him clearly. "Captain, if you will go, I will stay here to command the Dryad with Donnegal. My archers and artillery are here to watch your back."

To her crewmen she says, "Remain prepared, but take advantage of cover, we need not make ourselves too easy a target for the Skullstone archers."

Then it was a parlay.  Speaking of the Lintha with Morray could prove fruitful.

"Captain." Kiana said stoically, "I volunteer to accompany you to meet our new guests.  I can command Akihiro and his crew from afar, and I believe I may prove useful to you if negotiations prove sour."

Darel reported the information to Treon, and sent a Winds Carried Message to Hirdu relaying Kareth.

When Darktide made his offer of parley, Darel bit his lip. "This is not good... They must want something we have. I'd sooner destroy the Libram than hand it to them, no matter what we went through to obtain it."

[Private to GM: [OOC: How much do I pay for this relay?]]

"I do not think Captain Lasuri would just give up the Libram," Treon reassured him.  "Certainly not if he threatens him, and it would have to be a very significant trade which was offered.  Even then, I am not sure if he would."

"It could as easily be as a result of the engagement against the Lintha, or even unrelated to that."

Hearing the opposing Captain's call, Lasuri finally nods, turning back towards his crew. "Allright, here is how it will go down. I'll go and meet with Darktide, and see what he wants. I'm still a bit weary, but I trust in the people around us to cover us. Miss Kiana, I accept your offer. You'll come and back me up during the talks. I think our Captains should stay at the ready in case this goes sour, but I think you can direct the Akihiro even from where you are, so you're not losing your advantage. Mister Kareth... I'd like you to take the other place at our side. I'll need your assembled capabilities to pull through in this talk - we've no way to know yet how this is going to turn out. I'd like to be able to count on your combined strengths to help out with it."

"Mister Rowe. Mister Cray. Mister Koril. Miss Samil. You'll round up the meeting crew. Six on six, as the code prescribes." Lasuri nods sharply, then turns towards Jadira, taking a step closer towards her. "Listen closely, Jadira. If something - anything happens out there, you'll be in charge not only of the Dryad, but of the Alliance fleet. This ship is the flagship - the other Captains will look up to you for guidance. If, for whatever reason, this meeting turns hostile, I want you to pull out with the other ships and head for An-Teng directly. Miss Kiana can get the Akihiro to get us in a pinch, and I'll make sure to lead our small group to safety. We've got to fight defensively, so getting to Alliance to An-Teng is your priority. If it happens that way and we get separated, we'll meet at the usual rendezvous point."

The Captain smiles then, and touches the armswoman's shoulder. he lingers for a moment, then nods. "I trust you." He finally says, before turning towards Kiana and Kareth. "Well, let's not ride the line between fashionably late and unfashionably rude. Let's see what Darktide wants, and get this over with. Meeting crew, with us!" The Sea Drake orders, gesturing towards the lowered lifeboat, and preparing to go meet with the enigmatic Solar.

Zeru watches as the captain lowers the lifeboat preparing to head down to meet the Solar Captain. Zeru stands on the prow over the bowsprit with his chain holding him to the formast. His eyes were open and looking across at the other boat, the second ship the Skullstone Fleet had to offer and tried to stay vigilant.

"My lady does the Dryad send word" He mutters quietly. In a more full bodied answer, he smiles back at Cinna. "It appears our services have no need to be rendered in this rondevouz so if you could please keep the men ready we'll be on watch in case things go south."

Kareth nods.  He knows that when dealing with Skullstone, he would be able to counter their necromancers.  He thumbs the jade cord hanging from his belt.  "One moment Captain."  He walks over to Jadira and hands her the Libram.  "I don't think it will be good to have it that close to Skullstone troops. You might have it placed in the chest that the chalice was in."  He then walks over to life boat and signals he's ready to go.

The Captain did have other strategic plans than Kiana, so at least on that front she had been correct.  Retreat was a fair option, though Kiana had automatically tried to figure out the best way to assure victory for the Alliance.  Were it to come to escape, Akihiro would more than be able to surface in time for a quick escape, and for that matter, provide an unerring escape route beneath the waves, for that matter.

She was proud that Captain Lasuri had faith in her abilities, and that he would happily have her accompany him--though he would be silly not to.  Kiana had already proven herself a very powerful force in the ways of combat, and if things were to get messy, it would be beneficial to have her around...especially since Morray was a Solar, the most powerful of the Exalts (to her knowledge, at least.)

Once she stepped onto the smaller vessel, she looked to the Captain.  "Captain, if you introduce us, it might be wise to refrain from referring to me as a Captain.  Morray would likely wonder why I was not with my vessel."  And, if he wondered that, then Akihiro would lose the element of surprise, and Kiana would have them retain as many advantages as they could.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:39, Sun 15 Nov 2009.

"Good consideration, Mister Kareth." Lasuri says, as the engineer gets rid of the Libram for the duration of the talk, at least. "We're not yet sure what Darktide wants. Until he tells it to us, we should play it safe and not reveal anything. It might be for something unrelated, but I'd rather not risk giving him any info he might not already have by babbling."

When Kiana speaks of her plan, the Captain nods, obviously agreeing with her views. "Yeah, that's pretty much what I thought as well, Miss White-Fist. We'll keep as much info as we can hold. The less Darktide knows, the better for us. And if things do turn sour, the Akihiro will be pretty important for us, since that little rowboat we're going in is going to be smack dab in the middle of the warzone."

With one final nod to Kareth and Kiana, Lasuri turns towards the rest of his crew, and gesture towards the rowboat. "Allright people... The sooner we get there the sooner we can figure out what this is all about, and the sooner we can get this done. Let's get this thing on the road."

Black Marlena

"We can't instantly communicate with just a thought, it either takes power or I must leave the ship," Marlena snaps back, not angry at Zeru but too tense to be kinder. "We're not in any position for me to be wandering about, since you may need my power. But I've heard nothing from her except that we stay on standby while Lasuri goes to talk to Moray."

She doesn't seem happy about the situation, mumbling about consorting with the dead, and unsanitary necrotech, and other such complaints. "Next we'll be partnering with pelagials... and I'll never get my floorboards clean!"

Skullstone/Alliance Meeting

The rowboat descends onto the water, propelled toward the position of Moray and his delegation with Rowe and Cray at the oars. Slight movement from the Skullstone ships indicate that some of those watching from the decks have shifted their attention from the Alliance ships to the boat carrying Lasuri, Kiana and Kareth. They include several war ghost archers, and at least a couple of those that Kareth mentioned are Ghost-Blooded.

No one else moves, though, not even Moray, who remains upright with arms crossed, keeping his balance perfectly despite the sway of the small vessel he stands on. The blonde woman next to him watches pensively, her lovely face very serious, while the undead aboard sit still -- the silver-masked one calmly, the war ghosts now and then twitching with restlessness, like caged dogs.

Finally, the rowboats face one another, aligned almost perfectly keel to keel. "I'm glad we could meet peacefully, Cobalt Alliance," says Moray approvingly. "I'll cut to the chase here. We, and by that I mean myself, representing Skullstone, and my lovely ally, Miss Shell," the blonde lifts her head when Moray draws attention to her. Clearly, then, Moray is confirming she is not of Skullstone, though obviously not an enemy of his nation, either. "We are aware that you have caused significant trouble to a certain faction of the Lintha. The Dara-Said, even now, are devastated for their loss, I hear."

Silver Shell continues from there, not even waiting for a glance from Moray. When she speaks, she radiates a pleasant tone and appearance; compared to the Dread Pirate and his undead cronies, it's easy to feel more comfortable trusting her. "Specifically, we have reason to believe you hold in your possession an artifact of great power to the Lintha. I and my colleagues have been searching for this Chalice for a few years now."

She meets Lasuri's eyes, then Kiana and Kareth's, pinpointing them as his nearest allies. "We would like to help you destroy it."

"Now now, Shell. We haven't even confirmed they have it yet. Show it to us," Moray insists, "And then we can deal." He doesn't say what might happen should they refuse to, but a misstep with both sides aiming weapons at one another would not be ideal.

---

OOC: Even if you're not directly involved, let's assume you can hear the whole conversation, just for simplicity's sake. So you could try to read Moray and Shell's intent (Perception+Investigation or Socialize) even from 250 yards away if you want. [Private to Lasuri Leomaris; Kiana White-Fist; Isole Kareth: Silver Shell has App 5. She's obviously much better spoken than Moray, who quite honestly is not good at much besides sailing and swashbuckling. ;) Anyway, please give me, privately, a short statement that describes your basic motivations in entering this particular conversation. She's using a charm on you, which succeeded.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:35, Mon 16 Nov 2009.

Tageru's eyes stay focused on the girl with Moray, seemingly ignoring the rest of the unusual crew. "That girl", he says, "The one that travels with Darktide. She is also Ana... A Solar. One of the Zenith, I believe she calls herself. Blasphemous, some would call her kind, but I know her personally, and I don't believe she is wicked. She is an honorable person, or at least she was a year ago, so if you can let the Captain know that she can be trusted, that could be good for the negotiations." Tageru says quietly to those around him aboard the Dryad.
Holding his bow closely to his side, the ex-monk keeps watching, and painful memories return. "why is she here now?" he thinks to himself. "It must be a sign from the Dragons."

Though Kiana had learned to be much more charismatic and influential over the last few months, that did not mean that she had suddenly became a chatterbox.  She looked at both Morray and his ally, Shell, with eyes that could pierce almost any illusion, ears that could hear practically hear their heartbeats, and a nose that could detect even the faintest trace of poison within a well prepared meal.  Her face remained stoic and neutral as Morray and Shell spoke, and she would remain silent until she was bade to speak, instead leaving the negotiations to Lasuri.

[Private to Storyteller: Kiana's motivation for entering into the conversation?  Well, she actually has no real intention of speaking unless she is needed, but the whole reason she came with the boat to meet with Morray is to protect the Cobalt Alliance if things come to a head.  She has grown incredibly fond of the Cobalt Alliance, even loves it, and Kiana is incredibly protective over those precious few things that she can actually claim to love.]

Kareth stood stoically behind Lasuri keeping his eyes open for signs of an ambush.  He had heard that Darktide kept his parley's but a little caution never hurt anyone. At the mention of the Chalice, Kareth secretly rackled.  He had spent the past 3 months working to ensure the cursed tableware had been placed somewhere where no one but the Captain could get to it.  Simply removing it from Elsewhere would be a significant power drain on Lasuri and place them at a definite disadvantage.  Plus it would expose the Chalice to capture.  The demand to produce it disturbed the engineer.  However, this was the captain's decision.

From his place at the helm of the Hammerhead, Treon watched the proceedings with a weather eye.  Whilst most of his attention was on the pair of vessels which had borne the Skullstone party to the meeting, not entirely trusting that this wasn't a ruse on Moray's part, he knew that what was decided on the boat could be as dangerous to the Alliance--or more so--than any pair of ships.  So he watched Moray and his companion too.
[Private to GM: 16:18, Today: Cathak Garel Treon rolled 3 successes using 6d10 with the White Wolf Exalted system with a target of 7 with rolls of 6,9,1,10,1,4. Per+Soc. ]

Lasuri does his best to remain calm and collected as he and his skeleton group float towards Moray and his people. His lips purse slightly as he approaches, and he maintains a look of focused professionalism as the small rowboat finally reaches its destination. From there, Lasuri listens, remaining as still and unreadable as he can manage.

When the topic of the Chalice is brought up, however, the Captain raises his chin, a curious expression playing on his features. "News have indeed traveled far, although that in no way was in our intention, Captain Darktide." Lasuri does not look to his allies - he knows they will remain on the lookout, and trust that they will maintain their vigilance even further now that the subject of this little chat has been finally revealed. Taking a step back, Lasuri observes the going-ons carefully, his expression shifting slightly.

"Listen, Captain Darktide. We're aware of your animosity towards the Lintha. We don't know your reasons for doing so, but well, those are yours to have. But there is one thing you have to understand here. That Chalice is not something I can just pull off and show you. The reason is beyond trust and mistrust - after all, I respect parlays as much as you're said to. The reason is much more insidious: it's because this thing is dangerous. For my men and yours, and for you and I. I don't know everything about it, but I know enough to be certain that only a touch is sufficient for it to possess people. Sometimes, it seems like touch isn't even required, even. I could pull this thing out right here and corroborate our claims, but sadly, doing so might mean one of us here would become its slave, and I've see what that thing can do when possessing another. That's not a risk I can take, in good conscience."

"I'm not beyond hearing what you want to say, though. The one thing you need to know, however, is that I'm not the king of these people you see here. I'm the Captain of the flagship, and I'm expected to take decisions when required, but on matters as important as what we do with this thing, I'm afraid I can't take that decision alone. The Alliance works in a more democratic way, Captain Darktide. So I'm afraid if you just ask me here, I'll have to decline. Not because I don't want to hear your proposal, but because I can't accept without the approval of the majority of the Alliance's representative."

"So here's what I propose, Captain. If you have goodwill, and if you're willing to see this talk through seriously, I'm willing to show the same. We can hold a meeting with me and all the important people in the Alliance and you and all the people you wish to be present. Obviously, neutral ground is not so much an option in the middle of the sea, so we'll have to invoke the code - no one will be harmed on either side during the parlays. If you agree, we'll both state our agreement right here, thus cementing the terms according to the Code. We'll then proceed to one of the ships - I suggest the Spring Dryad II, because it has enough space to accommodate everyone, but you're free to make another suggestion if you will - and all weapons will be kept tucked in."

"If you agree with these terms, and are willing to accept that I can't just pull out the Chalice easily, but that I am not lying in that I do have it... Then the Alliance will hear what you and your people have to say, in peace."

[Private to GM: Lasuri's motivations, of course, are to figure out what Moray wants out of this talk, and to keep his own people safe from troubles. When the topic of the Chalice is breached, he immediately becomes even more protective; he wants to keep both the item safe, and to prevent other parties to possibly get their hands on it. He's curious as to Moray's true intentions, but also highly suspicious of anyone wanting to get their hands on the chalice. Lasuri is completely honest, however - not a thing he said is a lie.]
This message was last edited by the player at 18:18, Tue 17 Nov 2009.

Kiana finds Moray and Shell surprisingly difficult to read ulterior motives from, especially the latter. On the other hand, Shell presents a demeanor of being trustworthy, dependable, even kind, a foil to Moray's dashing bravado. It doesn't necessarily mean she HAS any other motives. She could very well be a genuinely honest person. And Kiana does have some precedent for that; after all, Lasuri and Jadira were much the same way to her when she first met them, and they've done nothing so far to change her mind about their sincerity.

Treon, watching the pair, feels very similarly about the beautiful Silver Shell, though from where he's standing it's perhaps not nearly as dazzling an impression as Kiana has up close. Used to sizing up other captains, Treon feels much more confident in his impression of Moray as a Skullstone loyalist and Lintha-hater -- it's all but written in his face and posture. [Private to Cathak Garel Treon: Moray is utterly loyal to Skullstone. He opposes the Lintha because he considers them a dangerous enemy of his homeland and would delight in seeing them destroyed. Thus you can be confident that his desire to be involved with the Chalice is purely for the sake of disadvantaging the Lintha. Unfortunately, what that does NOT make certain for you is whether he agrees with Shell wanting to destroy it, versus wanting (likely foolishly) to claim the Chalice for himself as a means to control the Lintha. On the other hand, you believe Shell is completely honest about wanting to bring an end to the Chalice. And you're certain Moray trusts her implicitly, as well.]

Moray frowns pensively, listening to Lasuri speak, while Shell remains contrastingly serene. He is quick to reply once Lasuri gives him a chance to. "News travels far when one has eyes and ears in many places. Particularly those interested in the demise of the Lintha. They are quite restless now that the Kri Kiamo returned to Lintha waters, a few loose tongues have seen to that." The Kri Kiamo being Lintha Dara-Said Father Hazhain Sul's spirit flagship, which managed to escape the last battle between him and the Alliance, if only with dead bodies aboard. "As for your 'proposal', Leomaris..."

The Skullstone captain's eyes flick toward the seated blonde woman, who nods firmly. Whatever passes between them elicits a small flicker of annoyance on Moray's face, which quickly resolves into a more decisive expression. He can't help but flourish just a bit, though, jerking his chin up and folding his arms again as he stares at Lasuri, as if to assert he does not quite consider the Water Aspect deserving of trust.

"Fine. If you require a safer environment than this for your captains and mine to discuss the fate of the Chalice, so be it. We are now acting within the precepts of parlay." Moray raises his voice commandingly so that it might reach the Testament and the Bride of Ashes. "Skullstone, stand down."

As the war ghosts, Ghost-bloods and other myriad beings on the Skullstone ships release Essence and lower their bows, Captain Darktide smirks at those gathered on the Alliance rowboat. "You should be thankful to Miss Shell. She generously vouches for you where I do not. That said, since you've yet to present me with the object of our discussion, I suggest we meet on the Testament. Just as you ask me to trust you, so you must trust MY intentions as well. Assemble those you will bring to our meeting aboard my warship, and we'll continue. However, if you use this opportunity to run off from us, we'll be inclined to give chase." Here his deep blue eyes show a hint of menace, but only that.

Silver Shell shakes her head slightly, and offers a smile to Lasuri, Kiana and Kareth. "Moray, as ever, you lack tact and grace. Cobalt Alliance, you may not believe it now, but we are on the same side. You'll find no harm comes to you on the Last Will and Testament."

---

OOC: After some reactions, I'll hopefully be in a position to continue with a scene change. This way everyone can be in the same place and can contribute to the discussion. Of course, it's up to the PCs to decide whether to join in (particularly if they mistrust Moray...) Those who don't may have some waiting to do, though, unless they come up with mini scenes of their own.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:29, Tue 17 Nov 2009.

Kareth maintains his cold stony face.  He did not like where this was going, but he saw little that he could do now.  Instead he focused on trying to ascertain as much as he could about Darktide, Shell, and their crew.

To Kiana, it was a reasonable request, if only from a tactical standpoint.  It negotiations did turn sour, and the parlay dishonored, then having the meat of the Cobalt Alliance as a sort of hostage certainly had its appeal.  On the other hand, a certain amount of caution would be needed as well, as the officers of the Cobalt Alliance were far from helpless...individually, many of them were considered great threats, but together, they were ever a force to be reckoned with...even to someone such as Darktide.

Kiana couldn't help but like Shell, despite herself.  The woman was pleasing to the eyes, a trait that Kiana could appreciate as much as any man could, but Kiana did not sense any malice or foul play from the woman.  She seemed noble, kind, and assured, not the traits of a fiend.  So Kiana, for her part, agreed with the course of action.

Seeing as she was a voice of the Cobalt Alliance, however, and a Captain no less, Kiana felt a definite urge to speak.  "It seems a reasonable request to me, Captain Lasuri."  She said, giving her support to the course of action.  And, really, it was the only course of action, at least in terms of avoiding blood shed.

Kiana did not, however, tell Akihiro to stand down.  The Elemental crew she held in command would not tired nearly as easily as the humans of the other ships.  She would alleviate their concern, however.

It appears our guests are not overly hostile, Akihiro.  Tell Akuj and Calliope to keep my people at the ready, for the worse.  However, I do not anticipate a battle should ensue.

Treon looked about his ship.  "I think there should be a representative from the Hammerhead onboard the Testament.  Both to offer our opinion on Darktide's offer, and incase things should go wrong."

"Does anyone wish to volunteer?"

Lasuri takes a moment to consider Moray's offer, furrowing his brow slightly as he does so. After a few seconds of consideration, during which Kiana states her approval of the terms. He nods to her then, before returning his gaze towards the Skullstone Captain and his companion. Considering that the Alliance has the Chalice and Lasuri has refused to show it, they do have an advantage - thus, meeting on Moray's ship only makes sense if one is trying to even the field. "... Alright, Captain Darktide. We'll meet on the Last Will and Testament and discuss what you want from there."

The Captain nods his head politely to Silver Shell's intervention, choosing not to worsen the situation by addressing Moray's barbs. Instead, he straightens, then announces his intentions out loud. "I'll need some time to get word to the other Alliance ships, and to prepare the delegation that will go and meet you. We'll send word over as soon as we're ready and see you then, provided you're ready to receive us."

With that, the Captain bows, then orders the boat returned to the Dryad, where he will prepare for the meeting ahead...

OOC: Thought I'd make it easier on the ST with this - people should still feel free to post reactions as desired, but it gives an easy cut out point for everyone who wants to participate in the talks to move on to the Testament for a scene change.

"I would like to go, if it's not a problem...", the monk says quietly. "If there is trouble, I believe I am more than capable of helping our defense. Not that I think there will be any trouble, but still, it pays to be careful.", he says, cracking his fingers loudly, his muscles tensing. "Also... I know that woman, Shell, from before... If I'm there, I think our chances for friendly negotiations will be greater. And I would like to talk to my old acquaintance."

Skullstone/Alliance Meeting

Kareth finds nothing more to be suspicious of on the outside, besides the fact that Skullstone is not necessarily the most savory of nations. He too feels that Shell is a woman of a kind, sincere heart, and that Moray simply wishes to help hasten the doom of the Lintha.

As for the nearby undead crewmen, they appear completely loyal to their captain and nation, meaning that as long as Moray deems the Alliance friendly, they will heed his commands not to do them harm.

"We'll be ready," says Moray promptly, "but we won't wait forever." He then signals his boat to return to the Testament as well, mirroring Lasuri, Kareth and Kiana's return to the Dryad.

Hammerhead

When no one else speaks up to answer Treon, Tethia abruptly breaks the silence. "I could go if no one else wishes to. Though I do not know if I count as a representative," her lips quirk slightly as she says this, "and again, I am the only one aboard able to operate our heaviest weapon with adequate skill."

Akihiro

I will pass your message on, says Akihiro, his voice a comforting rumble in Kiana's mind. Though I am concerned, friend Kiana. You say the people in the dark ship are not overly hostile, yet they require additional caution. If they are neither friend nor foe, then can we not simply be on our way? Social nuances are clearly something Akihiro needs some getting used to, still.

In any case, please be careful. We've just barely begun traveling together, I would like to see much, much more of this world, and more people than these dead ones. Again the touch of petulance, but it can't be helped; large as he is, the island ship is only about 3 months old.

Black Marlena

"And what about us?" Marlena demands when it becomes obvious the Alliance members will meet Moray and others on the Last Will and Testament. "Surely you won't let these proceeds go by without one or more of us involved, Zeru?"

Melusine sighs pensively, still facing the direction of the Skullstone ships. "Their stench rots on the wind, yet they speak carefully and politely. Why do they want the chalice? I do not think this man, Moray Darktide, should be allowed to touch it." The blind nymph shudders at the very memory of being under its thrall.

"And Silver Shell does not belong with them. Is she a flower in the jaws of a beast? Or herself a crafty siren, bidding Moray to dance to her song?" She does not seem to expect an answer, content to meditate on the riddle the humans present.

Last Will and Testament

As they are rowed back toward their flagship, Moray and Shell seem to be deep in discussion, the Skullstone captain shaking his head sharply now and then while she speaks quietly. Once the Solars are lifted back aboard with their undead escort, though, Captain Darktide is once again firmly in command, very likely making preparations for the arrival of the Cobalt Alliance delegation.
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:52, Thu 19 Nov 2009.

"I'd rather not put you all in danger, as I do not know the extent of the situation my lady." He puts on a grin despite the tensions and the serious air. "Besides getting any closer makes the smell stronger." He sighs and looks up at the sky.

"I suppose I should aide the Captain but I get the feeling we'd be more effective here, in case things go wrong we can aide Miss Thornbloom in rallying the rest of us." He shakes his head. "I just don't know on this one. My lady bring us closer to the Dryad I'll have a word with Captain Lasuri, see if I can come to a decision."

Jadira has by now ceased aiming her cannon, cutting the power as soon as she sees the Skullstone side lower their weapons. She orders the gunnery crew to remain alert, but passively armed, and hurries toward Lasuri as he, Kiana and Kareth are lifted up with the four Dryad crewmen that accompanied them.

"I'd like to come as well, Lasuri, but I don't know if we should leave the Dryad without at least one of us aboard..." Jadira visibly winces, as she realizes how close that sounds to the last time they parted, before that terrible battle with the Dara-Said. She'd not let those Skullstone pirates get the jump on her, though, not while she has them in her sights. "And Tageru, if you know Darktide's... 'negotiator', I think he said, then we might as well use all the advantages we've got."

"It's sad how paranoid we've had to become, though," the Dryad's first mate remarks with chagrin. "The last thing we'll want to assume is that they're just plain telling the truth."

"Though we do have the advantage of knowing they're Solars. I, personally, could care less if they're 'Anathema' or not, but they might be equally paranoid about dealing with us. In case we might report them to the motherland, so to speak." Jadira is clearly amused by this prospect, given that said motherland had exiled her many years ago.

Black Marlena

"Well... you may be right," says Marlena grumpily, then more sharply, "Certainly about the smell. I've never understood how anyone could rationalize living side by side with corpses." Zeru can almost imagine the smirk on her face, but she is still dematerialized.

He cannot see her nod, either, but the fact the courier ship starts to position herself alongside the Dryad is enough indication of compliance. "Go talk to Captain Lasuri, and I'll amuse myself plotting how I'll sail circles around that woman with the ridiculous name. Bittersea Blackfalcon? Sounds like something a teenage girl would make up to sound more menacing."

It isn't long before the Marlena is close enough to the Alliance flagship for Zeru to easily swing aboard.

"You have my deepest thanks my lady" Zeru says as he flips his chain off his his shoulders. "I'll be back with news." Zeru tells his crew as he hooks his chain onto some outstanding rigging and swings aboard the dryad. Bidding a good evening to the spirit herself, he goes and searches for Lasuri and Jadira.

"I presume that I could represent the Hammerhead," Darel said, shaken from his thoughts by Tethia's intervention. "Tethia can stay on board to man the heavy armament if things get really ugly. But I am no practiced negociator."

As soon as Kareth arrives back on the Dryad, he begins to make preparations for the trip over.  After double checking that the libram was secure in the jade chest originally designed to hold chalice, he gathered his belongings and prepped for the meeting.

"You are perhaps better placed on the Implosion Bow, should things go wrong Tethia," Treon says.  Though it's clear he would trust her to go.

He turns then to Darel, "You could speak for the Hammerhead, yes.  I'm sure Lasuri and Kiana are quite capable of diplomacy, Darel, but I feel the ship should have a representative there, so that Captain Darktide knows that all in the Alliance are behind the decision Captain Lasuri makes."
Edit: For more sense and/or grammar.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:29, Fri 20 Nov 2009.

Lasuri busies himself giving last-minute orders and recommendations before he heads over to Moray's ship. Trying to make certain everything is as it should is almost a surefire way to get something wrong or over-commit and get surprised - so instead, Lasuri's directions give plenty of leeway to the crew of the Dryad. The Captain obviously trusts the instincts and judgment of his crew implicitly, and thus doesn't need to guide them more than necessary. In a pinch, he trusts that the hardy crew will pull through.

When Jadira addresses him, the Captain puts his hands on the first mate's arms, then shakes his head. "You know I'd like you along, Jadira. We've been partners for so long, it's an instinctive response. But well... Like you implied, there's more in there than you and me. So it looks like we'll need to divide the responsibilities again. But hey, if I have to leave the Dryad and its people to anyone, you're at the top of the trusted list." The Captain smiles, then plants a short kiss on the armswoman's forehead. "Take care of people here. I'll take care of people over at the Testament." Lasuri nods one more time, then turns to face Zeru when he steps in, walking towards his fellow Captain with a quick pace.

"We're going to the Last Will and Testament to see what Darktide and his allies are proposing. They say they want to help destroying the Chalice... It'd be nice if it was genuine. Hopefully that's what we'll find out."

"Since we all have a say in what course the Alliance will be taking next, I convinced Darktide to hold the precepts of parlay and allow the members of the Alliance to step in. Anyone willing to come is encouraged to do so. Every voice in our group counts, and I didn't want to be deciding something this important on my own. The path we forge and the future we build are our own."

"So. Will you be coming along and representing the Marlena, Mister Zeru?"

"That's what I'm here to discuss Captain. I trust you implicitly, and if you asked I would stand by your side in a heartbeat, but for the moment something has been bugging me, I can't put my finger on it, but it has. I feel that I would do more good waiting behind with Lady Jadira on this trip Captain."

He almost laughs, "I guess it's my own indecision that has me here." He shakes his head. "What would you have me do?"

Lasuri nods as Zeru speaks, raising his head slightly when his fellow Captain asks his question. For a moment, the Sea Drake seems to ponder carefully, raising a gloved hand to rub the scruffy growth of stubble on his cheek while he thinks.

"Well... Listen. What's important to me in this whole thing is for people to do what they think is best. If you think you can do more good staying behind, then I won't challenge that, Mister Zeru. Often, one has to listen to their gut feelings - they end up telling the truth more than people think. If you trust me and your companions to speak in your name, then you can stay behind. We'll meet back once this thing is over with."

The Captain pats Zeru on the arm, then nods to him. "Follow your instincts. I'll leave things outside to you and Miss Thornbloom. Keep you ear to the ground, and watch out backs."

"Are we leaving now?", Tageru says, and stands up from the deck. "If it's so, then I am ready."
This message was last edited by the player at 10:25, Sat 21 Nov 2009.

"Very well," Darel said. "I will walk there. Kathelane and Zorodeanès will remain immaterial near the Testament in case we need an emergency liftoff... And Tulaandr..." He did not finish his phrase as the sesselja swam through his skin to rest in his stomach, where he would intercept drugs or poisons...

"As I said I trust you implicitly Captain, I'll help Lady Jadira hold the fort." He says with a small grin. "I'll keep my eyes open, although to be honest Melusine's ears are a hundred times more effective than my eyes."

Zeru bows towards Jadira. "You're the lead on this side Lady Jadira, just shout and I'll relay. And if you need anything, don't hesitate to shout." Zeru waits for a response before he turns around and hops back aboard the Marlena.

"I've left the choices aboard Moray's ship up to Captain Lasuri and the rest. We'll be acting as backup to Lady Jadira and the rest of the Dryad and rear guard, so keep on your toes." He tells his crew.

Do not worry, Gentle Akihiro.  There is much more for both of us to see of this world.  This situation simply needs a little diplomacy.  These people are enemies of the Lintha, the worshipers of the foul artifact that infected your father ad terrorized the Jokun and Nymphs.  We are simply trying to determine if the enemy of our enemy is our friend.

Kiana waited, patiently, to join Lasuri with the negotiation team.  She considered taking either some Jokun or some Nymphs with her, but decided it was best not to show a sign of force or paranoia.  She was sure between all of the exalts that were going to the Testament, they would be well taken care of.

Time - Late evening

By the time Lasuri and the other Alliance members accompanying him are prepared to head to the Last Will and Testament, the last vestiges of sunlight are already slipping away beneath the horizon. The darkening sky is still incredibly clear, the Western constellations glittering around a small sliver of rising moon. Below that heavenly expanse, the ships of the Alliance and Skullstone remain floating in the same unmoving formation, while Akihiro lurks uncomplainingly below.

Cray and Rowe return to help in rowing the small, uncomfortably vulnerable boat headed toward Moray's flagship. In the gloom of late evening, the Alliance delegation can see the glow of lantern lights bobbing on the deck of the Testament, lighting their way. The slap of the oars, the creak of wooden boards and the whistling of the breeze are all they hear as they float along toward their unlikely potential allies.

Jadira, Zeru, Treon and Hirdu remain with the Dryad, Marlena, Hammerhead and Ambition respectively, they and their crews prepared to react should hostile activity erupt on board the Skullstone ships.

---

OOC: Darel, Kareth, Kiana, Lasuri and Tageru, move to 'Chapter 3, Phase 1 - On the Fate of the Chalice' when I open that thread.
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:24, Mon 30 Nov 2009.

Time - Night

About an hour passes by before a Wind-Carried Words message is sent from Darel to Kareth, and relayed on to Zeru and Hirdu, indicating that the Hammerhead, Marlena and Ambition should prepare to depart.

As for Akihiro, Kiana would be wise to inform him to remain submerged with the elemental crew until they have left the Skullstone vessels' visual range. She can feel the young island ship's mixed curiosity and irritation at having to stay out of the way for so long, though. But also his happiness that she and the other Alliance members that went to see Moray are still safe.

While Darel returns to the Hammerhead, presumably to let Treon know what he has seen and heard, Lasuri, Kiana, Kareth and Tageru return to the Spring Dryad with their new ally, Silver Shell. Revealed to them as a Zenith Caste Solar, she is now at their mercy, for better or for worse, at least until she can bring them to her An-Teng contacts. Tageru returns immediately to his quarters, apparently worn out or simply wanting time to himself.

Marlena makes sure to consult the Dryad's spirit, and lets Zeru, Cinna, Melusine and the rest know the situation: once the fleet is docked in the City of the Steel Lotus a week from now, Shell will introduce the Alliance to artifact experts she knows in the City. They will be looking at the Chalice personally and determining if, and how, it can be destroyed. After that, Shell and the Alliance are supposed to bring the Chalice and meet with Captain Darktide again. Supposedly, Skullstone wants the Chalice destroyed as much as the Alliance does, so the Captain of the Testament has suggested -- no, insisted -- that his liege, the Silver Prince, also be consulted of any plans for the demon artifact.

As per Shell's request, as well as Lasuri's own desire not to deceive his crew, her Solar nature is revealed to everyone in the Alliance, from ordinary sailor to elemental to Terrestrial. Along with the uneasy deal arranged with Skullstone concerning the Chalice, that revelation occupies thoughts and conversation throughout the rest of the night.

---

OOC: Back on track. Tageru is now NPC status as well. I'll leave this thread open a bit longer in case people have more to discuss, but will be opening the new thread very soon. 'Chapter 3, Phase 2 - City of the Steel Lotus' will begin a week ahead in game time (9th Day of Resplendent Earth).

And warn Akihiro she did, the moment she was off the Testament and onto the small boat that carried her and the other members of the Alliance back to their flagship.

I can sense your apprehension, my friend, but please be patient a little longer.  The negotiations have gone as well as they could, and there will be no loss of life on either of our accounts this day.  However, I wouldn't give you away as they leave, as that would make your extended submersion all for naught.

That being the case, Kiana was visibly happier to be back on the Dryad.  She had not particularly enjoyed that little excursion.  Captain Darktide was a fairly confused gentleman, in terms of how he approached the conversation, and Bittersea had been almost hostile, if only passive-aggressively.

Kiana did go out of her way, however, to find those who she had commanded before on the Dryad, whom she easily considered friends, and have her old 'honor guard' be sure to welcome Silver Shell kindly, and to make her feel welcome.  The woman was beautiful and kind, so that would no doubt happen naturally, but Kiana couldn't help but like and trust the Solar, and so felt she could make sure that they did not fear her, despite her 'Anathema' status.

Darel made a comprehensive report of the meeting to Treon and Tethia, including his impressions on Shell. "She looks... wholesome enough compared to Darktide or Blackfalcon. Not that they looked like baby-eating skull-helmed brooding servants of the dead themselves. But I don't know what to think of her. It could be a cultivated impression used to lure us into complacency, who knows what the Solar 'Anathema' can do..."

He shrugged. "However, she put herself into a delicate position by confirming her status as Anathema, in order to make the first step, so to speak. I will honor that trust as long as she does ours."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:34, Mon 30 Nov 2009.

As Darel returns, Treon greets him.  "Welcome back, Darel.  Thank you for being our representative on the Testament," he says, before he listens to the report.  Treon's face darkens at numerous points during the report, most notably at the mention of the Silver Prince wanting a more direct meeting concerning the chalice, but also at the mention that Shell, a self-confirmed Anathema would be travelling with them.  Whilst he hadn't been terribly devout, that had still been his faith for many years.  He was mindful too, of Hera, though.  "I suppose we can show her that courtesy, yes," he agrees with Darel.

"I only hope we manage to keep her in ignorance of the Libram, at least for the moment.  Thank you though, for being there," he says once more.

He then turns to the crew.  "It seems we're still sailing on for An-Teng though, so make your preparations to be underway once more.  Balio, Tonsar, would you be so good as to row over to the Dryad to pick up Aranita?"

Kareth had spent the last part of the meeting in silence, largely do to him not having anything constructive to say.  He interacted little with Silver Shell on the journey back to the Dryad.  He did however, corner her attention briefly on deck after she had settled in.  In a not so round about way, the engineer was voiced his concerns to the Zenith that her friends might be corruptible by the chalice.  "Madam Shell.  About these friends to whom you are taking us, how is it that they are able to safely deal with dangerous artifacts.  Surely such a profession would lend itself to a quick demise if these were mortals with no assistance.  How can we be certain that the power of the Chalice won't corrupt them.  As you said, it was made of one of the Demon Princes themselves."

After receiving his answer, Kareth finds Lasuri and Jadira.  "I don't know how well that meeting went.  Given my... unique... powers among our crew, I might be needing to seek out some new tricks.  Is there anything you feel might be strategically useful?"

Hammerhead

The crew of the Hammerhead mill about on board, some of them listening more closely to the report than others. Some make warding signs and mumble prayers against the double whammy of Anathema AND Skullstone, though all of them agree that Silver Shell is very beautiful to look at, and doesn't look like someone who'd curse them.

At Treon's command to fetch Aranita, Tonsar nods promptly, "Aye sir." He's never been much of a complainer, one of Treon's most dependable men. Balio grumbles about having to pick up the girl, but otherwise complies promptly, the two of them stepping into a rowboat lowered down by their comrades. [Private to Cathak Garel Treon: Later when you're docked and all, you might be interested in engaging Shell in conversation at some point, since you're pretty much the only character in the team that has decent Socialize. ;) you may be able to tell more about her than the others, is all I mean!]

Spring Dryad

Silver Shell smiles at the crew members she has just been introduced to, and bows formally in greeting. Not everyone is sure how to react to her being an Anathema, though everyone shows her courtesy at least. They haven't survived this long as Lasuri's crewmen without learning at least some manners and etiquette.

"Captain Lasuri, Captain Kiana, Mister Kareth and all you fine crewmembers of the Cobalt Alliance, thank you for accepting me aboard. Your trust means a great deal to me, and I hope that my contacts and aid will be of use to you. Other than my current occupation as negotiator I am also a competent healer, and I can hold my own in combat. Therefore if you have need of my aid you need but ask."

Again Shell bows to all gathered, a gesture of respect for her hosts. Among those on deck is Aranita, who watches the blond with a wide-eyed, awe-struck expression. When the opportunity comes to speak, she hesitantly steps forward. "M-my lady Shell, I... I am most humbled to meet you. My name is Aranita. My people, the people of Nkiru, we do not fear the Chosen of the Sun. To have the presence of one so blessed... it... it is an honor I never thought I would experience."

Shell may have said something to her, but Kareth's inquiry is important enough that she replies to him immediately. "Mister Kareth, my colleagues are a pair Chosen of the Sun and Moon have handled such artifacts for years. Among other things they have the means with which to starve an Artifact of Essence to power it, in order to study it in a safer environment. I admit it is no guarantee; Horus and Iyadali are, after all, my colleagues and not yours. However... I have another important reason for choosing them. I cannot say exactly why until we meet them, but I beseech you to be patient until then."

When Kareth stalks away, she finally turns to Aranita, who smiles back shyly. "Please, Aranita, do not treat me like royalty. No matter how I have been Chosen, I am still a human just as you are. I have simply been given the means with which to combat supernatural threats to Creation. That has become my life's work."

"I see, my lady," Aranita says, though not quite convinced by treating Shell as 'normal'. "And... t-thank you for speaking with me." At this point, Balio and Tonsar have arrived, and she looks back hesitantly at Shell, then Kiana, before returning with them to the Hammerhead.

Jadira looks immensely relieved that her comrades, and Lasuri in particular, have returned safely. After reuniting with them, the Wood Aspect makes sure to introduce herself personally to Shell. "Hello, Silver Shell. My name is Jadira Thornbloom; I am both first mate and armswoman on the Spring Dryad II. We will do our best to make sure your stay with us is hospitable. Yasmin," she turns to one of the two women left in her gunnery crew, "can you show Miss Shell to one of the empty officers' quarters?"

"Of course, ma'am," comes the prompt answer. Yasmin is a wiry woman with short, curly black hair. She steps away from her post at the catapults to introduce herself to Silver Shell, and bring her to where she can rest for the night. Assuming no one else has words for her, that is!

Then Jadira fields Kareth's question, a thoughtful and somewhat puzzled look spreading over her freckle-dusted face. "I believe you mean tricks besides your unique proclivities, then?" After all, Jadira would not know how to advise about arts she has never practiced, and very likely couldn't have. "Honestly, beyond continuing to develop what you now know, I'm not sure what to suggest... I mean, now that Kiana has her own vessel, we could always use more sharp eyes and ears, and those experienced dealing with the supernatural. You could develop more focused knowledge about particular types of beings or artifacts that we have dealt with, or even improve your combat skill. There's many ways you can help us with security without necessarily being an investigator."

[Private to Isole Kareth: Apologies if I misunderstood your question! Assuming I didn't, though... I remember there was that Craft one you had suggested for speeding up craft time with a group of assistants. Maybe you could get an Occult charm that interacts with spirits. You could get a specialty in Lore or Occult maybe. You could get another combat charm. (Or maybe Terrestrial Reinforcement for Melee or Archery. Either would help the crew in combat situations.) Or you could get an Extra Favored merit to reflect your additional duties. Maybe Favored in Investigation, or Awareness. But that's up to you, it's certainly not required.]

After Darktide had left her vision, whether through their own movement or his, Kiana would tell Akihiro that it was okay to surface.  It would take him a little time, of course, and in that time Kiana found herself sitting near the bow of the ship, hands on her arms as she looked out into the horizon.  It was an unusually sullen posture for the Captain, especially since she had spent the last three months with her new crew, and with Lasuri and Zeru as well, both men who seemed to hold perpetual grins.  They had rubbed off on her, of course, and she was happier for the change in her personal demeanor.

Still, with heavy thoughts on her mind, Kiana sat there, waiting for her ship to surface while thoughts of what Moray said lingered in her mind.  Given the time, she would ask him further about the Silver Prince, and how, exactly, the dead happily served him.  Though she had no love for necromancy, or even thought of such things, she could not quell the hope that lingered in her chest as she thought of her father, and what such things could mean for his spirit...which, for all she knew, remained within his chestplate, which held a great spot of honor within her quarters within Akihiro.

"Make yourself comfortable, Miss Shell." Lasuri utters, nodding sharply when Jadira orders her sent to her quarters. "We've still got a lot to learn about each other... But as long as you're with us, you're our guest, and my ship is your home. Do let me know if there's anything you need or I can help you with." With that last statement, the Captain lets Silver Shell go to her assigned quarters, and turns his attention to the conversation between Kareth and Jadira.

"Jadira's right, Mister Kareth. I thought you'd do well for that job because of the way you think - you have a tendency to analyze situations thoroughly, and you always try to account for worst case scenario. You have a decent dose of paranoia in your thought process, perhaps... And well, it takes some to do that sort of work. I should know, when me and Jadira were out romping through the world like a bunch of crazed youths away from home, I was the one doing that job for our group."

"Long story short... I proposed this position to you because I like the way you think and approach things. I'm sure you'll pick up skills of the trade along the way... But I think the foundation's there. So don't sweat it too much, okay? And let me know if there's anything you need that'd make your life easier, or if you need people in particular positions to help you out with the skills you think you'd have use for." The Captain claps the engineer on the shoulder then, a gesture both of friendship and trust.

Lasuri then turns his attention towards Jadira, and nods to her with a warm smile. He puts a hand on her shoulder for a moment, letting the touch linger before addressing her. "How are the preparations for heading to An-Teng, Miss Thornbloom? If we're all set, we might want to move on. Better not to linger too long in open waters like this, especially so close to the Lintha homeland with their vendetta hanging above our heads."

"Believe me, Las, I couldn't agree more." Jadira spares a glance for the Skullstone ships, still floating in the distance, though it's obvious they are making their own preparations to depart. "We should be ready to go at any time, once everyone is settled back in their own vessels."

She looks at Kiana sitting morosely alone, curious what could be on the young woman's mind, but their own separate duties as Captain and First Mate will preoccupy their time for now.

I'll make sure to spend more time with her later. Especially once we get to the City of the Steel Lotus. That quiet promise reassures Jadira, for now, as she signals over to Donnegal at the helm -- delegation is part of leadership! -- then moves to an empty part of the deck near the mast to begin her spell preparations to rouse the winds.

Fortunately, she'd long ago learned how to alter the spell shaping to allow the wind to persist even if she leaves the deck. Both she and Lasuri deserve another good night's rest, now that the Chalice is safely Elsewhere. "By the way Kareth, Kiana, we both appreciate all you've done for us so far. Thanks a lot. And go get some sleep, too."
This message was last edited by the player at 13:31, Thu 03 Dec 2009.

Akihiro

Akihiro rises at Kiana's bidding, almost too eagerly. The Spring Dryad sways back and forth as he quickly breaks the surface, causing a small amount of alarm to the sailors. Fortunately, they're not unused to the presence of the young island, and quickly regain both their footing and their nerves.

What troubles you, Kiana? You seem sad. That's almost the very first thing he asks. Having realized the folly in rising too quickly, Akihiro edges gently toward the Dryad, so carefully it seems almost comical, until Kiana can step onto his head with a short leap. A pair of jokun stand by as well, and a pair of nymphs in the water, to ensure she'll be pulled in if she falls.

Unfortunately the matter of Kiana's father, and the nature of his spirit are not necessarily things Akihiro would be an expert on. Still, his presence offers both the security of friendship and of a cozy place to rest. Kiana's quarters in the island ship are kept in the driest part of the interior, as the nymphs are more than content to be drenched, and the jokun are far from picky as long as they have swords and gems to polish.

Alliance Fleet

The Skullstone ships eventually do set sail, perhaps too impatient to wait for the Alliance to set off first. After all, Moray only has two vessels to coordinate, while the Cobalt Alliance has five. More than one sailor lets out a breath of relief seeing those black sails headed away to the north.

A uniform speed and heading are finalized between the five Alliance ships, relayed via direct spirit communication or Wind Carried Words. Jadira completes her wind spell, and the Spring Dryad crew leads the way on the final leg of the journey to An-Teng, this time carrying the beautiful yet still enigmatic Silver Shell with them.

---

OOC: Again, go to 'Chapter 3, Phase 2 - City of the Steel Lotus' once it's open. This thread will close by the weekend.

"Thank you Balio, Tonsar.  Welcome back, Aranita," he says as they arrive back and are safely aboard.  He then starts to shout out the nessessary orders to get the ship ready for sailing.  Once that is underway, he turns his attention back to Aranita.

"How was your stay aboard the Dryad?" he enquires politely.  "And did you meet our new vistor?"

Hammerhead

Aranita's face lights up when Treon mentions her visit to the Dryad, despite the fact she must be quite tired by this time of night. "Hello again, Captain Fireb... I mean... Treon." She belatedly remembers he preferred her not to use the title. "I truly enjoyed spending time aboard the Spring Dryad II. It is a beautiful and fascinating vessel, and the people are very kind. Captain Kiana who rides the island ship was very nice to me as well. She showed us through the mouth of Akihiro, and I felt... claustrophobic. But he is a gentle giant."

"I've seen so many wonderful things since accompanying you. And some frightening things as well," Aranita adds hesitantly. She hasn't forgotten the twisted appearance of Louis, the black water near the Chasm, the tales of deep sea horrors that the crew of the Hammerhead told her to scare her. She'd heard enough about the Lintha and how Melusine lost her eyesight to know the other Alliance members have seen much hardship as well. "But mostly wonderment."

"Lady Silver Shell was a surprise to me. The people of Nkiru think kindly of the Sun and his Chosen, something that we have often had to hide, for the Realm calls them Anathema. Yet Shell openly admitted to being Sunchosen to everyone! I... I have always wanted to meet one up close. We know first hand what good the Solar Exalted can do, for Iay Selak-Amun has protected us from the Western Wyld for many years, and we have kept alive the worship of Vesperna for generations... oh... but... a-anyway," she continues, realizing she's rambling and Treon might not care to know about such things, "Shell is as good and kind-hearted a person as I would have imagined, and I hope you will think the same when you speak to her, too." When speaking of Silver Shell, Aranita seems truly awe-struck.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:04, Fri 04 Dec 2009.

"She certainly is... fascinating," Darel said, having overheard Aranita's comments on Shell. "But while I have a good first impression of her, especially in contrast to this asshole Darktide - Oops, forgive the language - we have to remember that she is a being of immense power with her own aims."

He headed for his cabin. "I am tempted to call forth more... aids," he told Treon before leaving. "If you do not mind."

"I know, I was there when we visited Akihiro," Treon says with a grin for her enthusiasm making her forget that.  "I'm glad that you were well recieved by the rest of the Alliance though.  It is a brave thing Shell did yes," Even if she is Anathema, a demon.  Maybe.  "I will ask her about it, perhaps."

"But that is a good point, she is most definitely a being of power," he nods to Darel.  Before he frowns.  How many demons does one man need? "More?" he questions.  "You already have four," he says, his voice betraying a little distaste even at the idea of four.  "And we're travelling to An-Teng, a civilised port with many Exalted.  I'm not sure so many demons moving around is a good idea."
[Private to Darel Arwan: It's not a final no, but it will take a lot of talking.]

Darel shrugged. "They might not be needed in An-Teng, and I agree that too many such creatures might attract attention there, but once we return to meet the Skullstone fleet or when we face the Lintha again... We might want some additional muscle to bring to bear... We shall rediscuss this matter later, I will not press the issue for now. Perhaps new circumstances will warrant a few more summonings. Have a nice day, Captain."

With that, he left the deck and returned to his cabin.

Kareth simply nodded to the Captain and First Mate as he was dismissed.  He had work that needed to be attended to and he needed to be rested for it.